Is ankylosing spondylitis serious?

Generally, the severity of ankylosing spondylitis needs to be assessed by considering the disease control status. If diagnosed early and treated properly, most patients can achieve stable conditions with minimal impact on their daily lives. However, if intervention is delayed or treatment is inappropriate, the condition may progressively worsen, affecting joint function and even reducing quality of life. Detailed analysis is as follows:

In cases where the condition is well-controlled, patients can effectively relieve symptoms such as back pain and stiffness through anti-inflammatory medications and consistent rehabilitation exercises during the early stages of the disease. This can prevent further inflammatory damage to the joints, avoid spinal deformities or joint fusion, and allow normal daily activities to proceed with minimal disruption, indicating a non-severe condition.

If patients neglect their condition, miss the early treatment window, or fail to follow medical advice for standardized treatment, persistent inflammation may damage the spine and peripheral joints, potentially leading to gradual spinal rigidity and deformities, causing difficulties in bending over or turning the body, and even affecting respiratory function.

In daily life, patients with ankylosing spondylitis should prioritize disease management, undergo regular follow-up evaluations to adjust treatment plans, adhere to moderate exercise to maintain joint flexibility, and maintain good posture. These measures can effectively control disease progression, reduce disease severity, and help maintain a normal lifestyle.