Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a chronic arthritis primarily impacting the spine’s base joints with the pelvis, leading to swelling and inflammation. An ankylosing spondylitis specialist or doctor diagnoses through blood tests and imaging, initiating ankylosing spondylitis treatment, often using NSAIDs and immune suppressants, and advising posture-improving exercises. Men, typically between 20 to 40 years, are more prone, influenced by genetics, and family history. The condition gradually restricts lower spine mobility as bones fuse. Though ankylosing spondylitis’s course varies, most can lead a productive life with proper management, except in severe hip cases, making early intervention and regular consultation with an ankylosing spondylitis specialist crucial for effective care.
Ankylosing spondylitis has no known specific cause, though genetic factors seem to be involved. In particular, people who have a gene called HLA-B27 are at a greatly increased risk of developing ankylosing spondylitis. However, only some people with the gene develop the condition. Regarding the risk factors, onset generally occurs in late adolescence or early adulthood. Most people who have ankylosing spondylitis have the HLA-B27 gene. However, many people who have this gene never develop ankylosing spondylitis.
There are complicated cases of ankylosing spondylitis. In those cases, new bone forms as part of the body’s attempt to heal. This new bone gradually bridges the gap between vertebrae and eventually fuses sections of vertebrae. Those parts of the spine become stiff and inflexible. Fusion also can stiffen the rib cage, restricting lung capacity and function. Ankylosing spondylitis treatment in such cases is done under skilled specialists with utmost care.
Our Ankylosing Spondylitis Clinic
Burjeel Hospital, located in Dubai, stands as a cornerstone in the provision of specialized care through its dedicated Ankylosing Spondylitis Clinic, specifically designed to address the multifaceted needs of individuals grappling with this condition. Our clinic is meticulously structured to offer comprehensive ankylosing spondylitis treatment, tailored to meet the unique requirements of each patient seeking our services.
At the core of our clinic’s operations lies an esteemed team of distinguished ankylosing spondylitis specialists and doctors. These experts are meticulously selected, not only for their exceptional qualifications and extensive experience but also for their unwavering dedication to the field. Hailing from globally renowned medical institutions, our specialists are equipped with an unparalleled level of expertise in managing ankylosing spondylitis.
Our clinic prides itself on delivering tailored therapies and treatment regimens that are not only informed by scientific advancements but are also deeply personalized to suit the individual needs of each patient. By seamlessly integrating cutting-edge medical technology with the latest advancements in ankylosing spondylitis care, our specialists ensure that patients receive optimal treatments aligned with the highest standards of medical excellence.
Furthermore, our commitment extends beyond medical expertise. We are dedicated to fostering a compassionate and supportive environment, ensuring that individuals grappling with the challenges posed by ankylosing spondylitis receive not only top-tier medical care but also unwavering emotional support and guidance throughout their journey to recovery. Our unwavering dedication to advancing patient care and well-being remains at the forefront of our mission as we continue to strive for excellence in delivering holistic and patient-centric ankylosing spondylitis treatments.
When to Consult a Doctor?
Seeking guidance from an ankylosing spondylitis specialist or doctor is paramount if experiencing persistent lower back pain and stiffness for over three months, particularly if worsening at rest or during sleep. Seeking medical attention for symptoms improving with movement but persisting is crucial. A family history of ankylosing spondylitis or indications like gradual spinal mobility limitation, hip/joint pain, or eye inflammation necessitates prompt consultation with a rheumatologist or orthopedist. Timely intervention is pivotal for effective ankylosing spondylitis treatment. An evaluation by an ankylosing spondylitis specialist not only aids diagnosis but also initiates suitable treatment strategies, mitigating complications and ensuring an enhanced quality of life. Prompt medical intervention facilitates symptom management, potentially halting disease progression, and enabling individuals to lead fulfilling, active lives. Regular consultations and proactive measures, guided by ankylosing spondylitis specialists and doctors, significantly contribute to better outcomes and improved well-being for those affected by this condition.
Our Procedures and Treatments
Our stellar team of ankylosing spondylitis specialists approaches this condition with great meticulousness and care. Treatment plans are often tailored to the patient’s medical needs and highly depend on your medical history. The conditions our ankylosing spondylitis doctors treat at Burjeel Hospital, Dubai, include the following:
- Imaging Tests
- Lab Tests
- Medications
- Therapy
- Surgery
CT scans, MRIs, X-rays, and other imaging techniques are used based on the doctor’s recommendation for the procedures.
Our Ankylosing Spondylitis Specialists
Our team of internationally recognized Ankylosing Spondylitis Specialists, with academic credentials from prestigious global medical institutions, specializes in tailoring effective treatments and management strategies for this condition. Their expertise in ankylosing spondylitis ensures personalized care, guiding patients toward optimal treatment paths. These specialists are dedicated to providing comprehensive support, assisting individuals in navigating the complexities of ankylosing spondylitis, and fostering well-being through their profound understanding and proficiency in managing this chronic condition.
The ankylosing spondylitis doctor will likely give you a physical exam to find out how well your spine and joints move, how much your chest expands, and whether certain movements cause pain. You may be asked to:
- Bend in different directions
- Take deep breaths
- Move your legs and hips in a range of positions
You may get imaging tests like X-rays or an MRI. This can tell the Ankylosing Spondylitis specialist whether you have inflammation in the sacroiliac joints in your lower spine. That’s a sign of ankylosing spondylitis. Your ankylosing spondylitis might do a blood test to look for markers of inflammation. They could also test your blood for the gene HLA-B27, which more than 95% of people with the condition carry.
These comprehensive evaluations play a pivotal role in establishing an accurate diagnosis and formulating a tailored treatment plan to manage ankylosing spondylitis effectively. They enable the healthcare provider to better understand the extent of inflammation, disease progression, and individualized care requirements, ensuring appropriate and timely interventions for optimal outcomes in managing this chronic condition.
