How does AS progress over time?
AS progresses differently over time in different people. Some people may experience mild symptoms which develop slowly, whereas other people’s symptoms may be more severe. Flares (times when symptoms get worse) may be experienced, as well as times where symptoms are mild, although during these periods joints do not return to normal. Repeated episodes of inflammation can cause damage to occur at inflamed areas.
Over time, the following symptoms may appear:
- Spinal ankylosis (where the spine loses flexibility)
- Pain in the hip, back of knee or front of thigh
- Pain and stiffness in joints other than the spine
- Eye problems
- Increased fatigue
- Fractures in the spine
Further information
For further information about AS, please visit the National Ankylosing Spondylitis Society (NASS) website