For those with Ankylosing Spondylitis (or if you know someone who has it)?
MathGuy
have recently reunited with my father after 13 years and it was a happy occassion. The only thing that worries me is that I found out he has been diagnosed with Ankylosing Spondylitis. I know this is a rare disease to get (even if a family member has it) but it is still in the back of my mind. My questions for those who have Ankylosing Spondylitis are:
1. Do one of you parents have the condition?
2. If you have children, did they develop the condition (assuming they are old enough)?
3. My dad has lost all range of motion in his neck? Is this a general effect or can stiffness of the neck be reduced? I would hate not to be able to turn my neck.
Thanks for all of the help.
1. I am the only person in my entire family that has AS.
2. I don’t have children.
3. Typically AS only effects the lower back, only in severe cases it can effect the neck but that is fairly rare.
As you stated, it is rare disease to get. It would be beneficial to see a rheumatologist to make certain that you don’t have any signs of it. Despite the fact there is no known cure for the disease, if caught early the disabling effects of the disease can usually be prevented with medications and exercises.