Ankylosing Spondylitis - What Patients and Doctors Often Miss

Most people don’t realize that ankylosing spondylitis (AS) isn’t just a bad back — it’s a systemic inflammatory disease that can silently attack multiple areas of your body. If you or someone you love experiences chronic back stiffness, pain that improves with activity, or nighttime waking, this episode could save you years of struggle.Dr. Vishnuteja Devalla, a leading rheumatologist specializing in autoimmune conditions, breaks down the misconceptions and hidden signs of AS, revealing how early diagnosis can transform outcomes. You'll discover why AS affects nearly 40% of women, not just men, and how systemic inflammation increases the risk of osteoporosis, eye problems, and even bowel disease — often before back pain even appears.We delve into the differences between mechanical back pain and inflammatory pain, and clear up confusing terms like axial spondyloarthritis, radiographic vs. non-radiographic forms, and why blood tests like HLA-B27 don’t tell the full story on their own. If you’ve been dismissed or misdiagnosed, this episode arms you with the questions to ask and the evidence to advocate for yourself.Learn about the life-changing treatments available: NSAIDs, biologics, JAK inhibitors, and emerging therapies — plus why exercise is your best ally, not your enemy. The stakes couldn’t be higher: early intervention can prevent long-term damage, improve quality of life, and eliminate the fear of fusing or ending up in a wheelchair. Whether you’re battling persistent back pain or supporting a loved one through diagnosis, this episode offers clarity, hope, and practical steps to take control of AS today. Don’t let decades of misdiagnosis define your life — knowledge is your best weapon. Chapters & Key Notes: 00:00 - Introduction: Overview of ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and its impact.00:28 - Guest Introduction: Understanding AS.01:21 - AS Explained: Systemic inflammatory condition affecting the spine and sacroiliac joints.02:10 - AS vs. Mechanical Back Pain: Differences and key features.04:19 - Clarifying Terms: Axial spondyloarthritis, radiographic vs. non-radiographic.06:10 - Beyond the Spine: Effects on eyes, gut, skin, and osteoporosis.07:52 - Early Signs & Red Flags: Importance of early diagnosis.10:00 - Diagnostic Tools: Blood tests, imaging, and HLA-B27 gene testing.14:42 - Myth Busting: Gender effects, progression, and treatment possibilities.17:32 - Treatment Journey: From NSAIDs to biologics and emerging therapies.23:41 - Mental Health & Support: Addressing psychological well-being.28:14 - Resources & Specialist Connections: How to get help and support.Connect with Dr. Vishnuteja Devalla: https://rheumatologistoncall.com/our-team/dr-vishnuteja-devalla/This episode emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis, comprehensive treatment, and patient empowerment to improve outcomes for those living with ankylosing spondylitis.Support the showMore info about Dr. Diana Girnita, MD PhDWebsite: https://rheumatologistoncall.com/Email: [email protected]: https://www.youtube.com/@rheumatologistoncallLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-girnita-md-phd-07b57810/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rheumatologistoncall/Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/RheumatologistOncall/Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/3685130571554200