Have you ever had back pain since you were young, or felt a stiff back when you first woke up in the morning? Does the pain seem to subside after a short walk or when you start your day's work? You may think that this is just a simple backache. But sometimes these symptoms can be the first signs of a condition called Ankylosing Spondylitis, which we are talking about today. Don't worry, we will talk about this clearly and simply.
What exactly is Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS)?
Simply put, Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a type of arthritis. But it specifically affects the joints in our spine . Our spine is made up of many small bones that come together, and the joints between these bones become inflamed, swollen, and painful. Over time, this inflammation can cause the joints in the spine to fuse together, reducing the flexibility of the spine.
The common symptoms of this disease are:
- Back pain and stiffness: This is especially felt when you first get up in the morning or after standing for a long time.
- Decreased pain during exercise: Surprisingly, pain increases when resting and decreases when active, such as walking, running, or jumping.
- Pain in other joints: Some people may also experience pain in joints such as the hips, knees, and heels.
- Feeling very tired.
This disease often begins in young people between the ages of 15 and 30. That's why many people may mistake it for a simple backache.
So is there a genetic link to this?
Yes. This is the most important point of this article. Ankylosing Spondylitis is a disease that is strongly hereditary, that is, it has a genetic influence . If someone in your family, that is, parents, siblings, has this disease, then you are also at higher risk of developing this disease than others.
As scientists research this, they have focused a lot of attention on one particular gene: the HLA-B27 gene.
Just think, more than 85% of patients diagnosed with Ankylosing Spondylitis have been found to have this gene called HLA-B27. Doesn't that show the strong link between this gene and the disease?
This HLA-B27 gene helps our body's immune system. Simply put, it recognizes and fights off foreign invaders like viruses and bacteria. But sometimes, due to changes in this gene, the immune system goes haywire and starts attacking healthy parts of our own body, in this case, the joints in our spine. Scientists believe that this inflammation is caused by this.
Is HLA-B27 the only one responsible for this?
No. That's a very important question. Although HLA-B27 is the main character in this story, there are a few other supporting actors. Scientists say that about 30% of the total genetic risk for developing this disease comes from the HLA-B27 gene. The rest is influenced by a number of other smaller genes.
Because the effects of these genes are small, it is difficult to identify them one by one. However, several more genes have been identified through research conducted by scientists around the world who have collaborated and shared information.
| Gene | Simple explanation |
|---|---|
| HLA-B27 | This is the main gene. It's related to the immune system. The majority of AS patients have this gene. |
| ERAP1 | This is also a gene involved in immune system function. It increases the risk of disease when combined with HLA-B27. |
| IL23R and IL1A | These are also genes involved in the development and control of inflammation in the body. Variations in these genes can also increase the risk of AS. |
Researchers are still looking for other, unidentified genes that may also affect this.
Does everyone get the disease just because they have the gene?
No. Absolutely not. This is what you need to remember. Having the HLA-B27 gene in your body does not mean that you will develop Ankylosing Spondylitis. It just means that you are at slightly higher risk of developing the disease than others.
Think about it this way. One study found that 75% of children who inherit the HLA-B27 gene from parents with Ankylosing Spondylitis, or three out of four, will never develop the disease.
This means that genes alone are not enough to cause this disease. In addition to genetic influences , environmental factors must also be present. Although it is not yet known exactly what these factors are, it is believed that certain factors, such as certain infections, may play a role. Simply put, genes are like gunpowder that is ready to ignite, and it needs a spark to ignite it.
So what should I do?
If you have symptoms like those mentioned in this article (back pain that starts at a young age, is worse in the morning, and is relieved by exercise), or if someone in your family has Ankylosing Spondylitis, you don't need to worry.
The best thing you can do is to see a qualified doctor, your GP, immediately . He or she will listen to your symptoms, examine you, and if necessary, order blood tests and X-rays. They may also recommend a test to see if you have the HLA-B27 gene.
Remember, the most important thing is to identify and manage these conditions early . If you do, you can control the pain, prevent back pain, and live a normal, happy life.
Take-Home Message
- Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a type of arthritis that primarily affects the spine. It is most common in young people.
- This disease has a very strong genetic link, with the gene HLA-B27 in particular being a major factor.
- However, just having the HLA-B27 gene in your body does not mean you will develop the disease. It is just a risk factor.
- In addition to genes, environmental factors also influence the occurrence of this disease.
- If you have long-term back pain, morning stiffness, or a family history of illness, don't panic and consult your doctor for proper advice.
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