Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is an inflammatory type of arthritis that can affect the spine and other joints throughout the body. It is estimated that around 1 in 200 people have the condition, and it is more common in men than women.
The progression of AS varies from person to person, and it can take many years for the condition to become severe. In general, the progression of AS can be divided into three stages: early, intermediate, and late.
In the early stage, people with AS may experience mild to moderate stiffness and pain in the lower back and hips. This can be accompanied by fatigue, weight loss, and difficulty exercising. It is during this stage that most people are diagnosed.
In the intermediate stage, the pain and stiffness become more severe and can start to affect other joints in the body. People may also experience difficulty sleeping and an increased risk of fractures due to weakened bones.
In the late stage, the spine and other joints become severely affected. The pain and stiffness can become so severe that it is difficult to move or even stand. People may also experience loss of height due to the fusion of the vertebrae.
Overall, it can take many years for AS to progress from the early stages to the late stages. However, with proper treatment and lifestyle changes, it is possible to slow down the progression of the disease.