Can people with ankylosing spondylitis have children?

Written by Li Jing
Rheumatology
Updated on November 13, 2024
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Firstly, ankylosing spondylitis is an autoimmune disease and is chronic. This disease cannot be cured; rather, it is managed long-term through medications to alleviate symptoms, control the progression of the condition, and delay the onset of joint deformities, which is the main purpose of treatment. This disease is not hereditary, but there is a clear phenomenon of familial aggregation. For instance, if one or both parents have it, the incidence in their children is over 50%. Patients with ankylosing spondylitis can have children, but there is a very high probability that their children will also suffer from the disease. Additionally, it is advised not to conceive while on medication during the treatment period; one must stop taking the medication for more than three months before considering pregnancy.

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Written by Yang Ya Meng
Rheumatology
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What is the ESR level in ankylosing spondylitis?

Patients with ankylosing spondylitis, if not well controlled, can exhibit elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rates (ESR). An ESR higher than 20 mm per hour indicates elevation, suggesting poor disease control. At such times, it is necessary to utilize non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as sustained-release diclofenac sodium tablets. Additionally, medications that control the condition should also be used, like sulfasalazine tablets and thalidomide, among others. While biological agents, commonly tumor necrosis factor (TNF) antagonists, offer the best treatment effectiveness, they are also the most expensive. (The use of medications should be conducted under the guidance of a physician.)

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Written by Li Jing
Rheumatology
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Does ankylosing spondylitis have a genetic component?

Ankylosing spondylitis is an autoimmune disease primarily affecting the axial joints. The onset is determined by both genetic and environmental factors, leading to the disease. This means that the disease exhibits a significant familial aggregation and genetic predisposition. If the parents have it, the incidence in their children is much higher than in others. However, it is definitely not a genetic disease; it just has familial clustering and genetic tendencies. If symptoms like stiffness in the neck or pain in the lower back intensify when at rest and decrease after activity, it is essential to use CT or MRI scans and test for HLA-B27 to check for damage or narrowing in the sacroiliac joints. Early diagnosis and early treatment are crucial to improve the prognosis of the condition.

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Written by Li Jing
Rheumatology
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Can ankylosing spondylitis cause red eyes?

Firstly, ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic autoimmune disease that primarily affects the axial joints. Its most common clinical manifestations are a stiffness in the neck or pain in the lumbar and back areas. This pain often occurs after sitting for a long time or at night, and symptoms are relieved after standing up and moving around; these are the main joint symptoms. In addition to these, there can also be extra-articular manifestations, with the most common being uveitis or iritis, which occur repeatedly. Some individuals may even develop corneal ulcers, also known in layman's terms as experiencing "red eye." These are extra-articular symptoms. Once recurrent uveitis or iritis occurs, aside from considering eye-related issues, systemic diseases must also be considered. Following the onset of this type of uveitis, the first choice of treatment is biologics.

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Written by Na Hong Wei
Orthopedics
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Can ankylosing spondylitis be cured?

Based on the current situation, it is very difficult to cure ankylosing spondylitis. Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic disease primarily affecting the spine. It mainly involves the sacroiliac joints and spine, eventually causing spinal stiffness and restricted movement. Additionally, it can cause varying degrees of damage to multiple organs such as the eyes, lungs, cardiovascular system, and kidneys. Ankylosing spondylitis is commonly referred to as AS, where 'A' stands for fusion and 'S' for spine, hence the term means spinal fusion. Currently, the cause of the disease is unknown, and there are no specific clinical treatments. The basic treatment principle involves alleviating pain, preventing spinal deformities, and strengthening the back muscles. Typically, conservative treatment is used during the early or middle stages, while surgical correction may be considered in the later stages when significant spinal deformities occur. Generally, ankylosing spondylitis is very difficult to cure.

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Written by Yang Ya Meng
Rheumatology
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What department should I go to for ankylosing spondylitis?

Patients with ankylosing spondylitis should visit the Rheumatology and Immunology department. After visiting, they need further screening for the HLA-B27 gene, and tests for inflammation markers such as ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate) and CRP (C-reactive Protein). A CT scan of the sacroiliac joint is also necessary. These tests help confirm the presence of ankylosing spondylitis. Once diagnosed, anti-inflammatory pain medications are required. Commonly used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) include Diclofenac Sodium Sustained Release Tablets, along with disease-controlling medications such as Sulfasalazine and Thalidomide. If the patient's financial situation allows and there are no conditions like hepatitis, tuberculosis, or cancer present, biologic therapies can also be considered. (Medication should be administered under the guidance of a doctor.)