Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic form of Arthritis that causes inflammation in spinal joints as well as in the hips. The Centers for Disease Control estimate that 2.4 million people in the United States have been diagnosed with the disease. Many others go undiagnosed due to misidentification of ankylosing spondylitis as other conditions. What causes this condition and how is it treated?Diagnosis and CausesAnkylosing spondylitis is found more often in young people aged 17 to 45 and is more common in men than in women. There are risk factors for the disease that include family history, frequent gastrointestinal issues, and carrying the HLA-B27 gene marker. You do not need to have the marker to have ankylosing spondylitis, nor do those with the genetic marker always get the disease. Researchers think there are a number of genes involved in the development of this ailment and often bacterial infections can serve as a catalyst.While symptoms can vary from person to person, the most common include pain and stiffness on one or both sides of the back and hips. As the disease progresses, the pain will last longer and move from the lower back to the neck and shoulders. Ankylosing spondylitis can also present with fatigue and anemia as the body tries to fight the inflammation. The disease is usually diagnosed by a rheumatologist based on medical records, x-rays, family history, and blood work.Treatment and PrognosisCurrently, there is no cure for ankylosing spondylitis, but a combination of medication and exercise can help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life for those that suffer from the disease. Usually NSAIDs work to help relieve the inflammation in the joints, but can cause further gastrointestinal problems. If NSAIDs are not working, anti-rheumatic drugs like Methotrexate are used. In severe cases of ankylosing spondylitis, the spine can fuse together which will limit mobility and effect posture. In more mild cases, sufferers will experience periodic times of pain and inflammation called flare-ups, but can go into remission for months at a time.Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic, life long disease that can have serious consequences for your health and mobility. With proper self-care and adherence to a comprehensive course of treatment, patients can alleviate symptoms and still live a long, full life.