21/10/2025
🩺 of Ankylosing Spondylitis
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a type of arthritis that causes inflammation in the joints and ligaments of the spine. It can also affect other joints, such as the hips, knees, and ankles.
⚠️ Risk Factors
- Usually begins in late adolescence or early adulthood
- Genetics: Often linked to the HLA-B27 gene
- Family history increases risk
- More common in people with Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, or psoriasis
🔍 How to Spot the Signs
- Early symptoms may include:
- Lower back pain and stiffness, especially in the morning or after rest
- Hip or buttock pain that develops slowly
- Neck pain and fatigue
- Shoulder pain
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
Symptoms may come and go, improve, or worsen over time.
🦴 Areas Commonly Affected
- The joint between the spine and pelvis
- Lower back vertebrae
- Tendon and ligament attachment points, especially around the spine and heel
- Cartilage between the ribs and breastbone
- Hip and shoulder joints
🚨 When to Seek Medical Advice
Consult a healthcare professional if you experience persistent low back or buttock pain that:
- Comes on slowly
- Is worse in the morning
- Wakes you during the night
💊 Pharmacist’s Role in Ankylosing Spondylitis
Pharmacists play a key role in supporting patients with AS by:
- Counselling on managing side effects and adherence
- Encouraging lifestyle measures such as regular exercise and posture care
- Referring patients to a GP or specialist when symptoms suggest AS
- Offering support for fatigue management and pain control
Sources:
Mayo Clinic: Ankylosing Spondylitis
NIAMS: Ankylosing Spondylitis
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