How does anklylosing spondylitis affect the respiratory system?
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Although other joints can be involved, ankylosing spondylitis (AS) primarily affects your spine. In this particular type of arthritis, the joints and ligaments of your spine become inflamed. This can cause back pain and stiffness. In time, the bones may fuse together, making it difficult to bend and move. AS can affect other joints, and in some cases, it can damage your eyes, heart, or lungs.
Respiratory system
Only rarely does AS affect the lungs. Inflammation or fusing in joints where your ribs meet your spine can result in poor chest wall movement. You may have difficulty taking deep breaths.
A small number of people develop scarring or fibrosis at the top of their lungs. This can make it difficult to fight off respiratory infections and colds. People with AS shouldn’t smoke.
During a physical examination, your doctor can listen to your breathing to check for problems. Damage to the upper portion of your lungs can be seen on a chest X-ray.
Respiratory system
Only rarely does AS affect the lungs. Inflammation or fusing in joints where your ribs meet your spine can result in poor chest wall movement. You may have difficulty taking deep breaths.
A small number of people develop scarring or fibrosis at the top of their lungs. This can make it difficult to fight off respiratory infections and colds. People with AS shouldn’t smoke.
During a physical examination, your doctor can listen to your breathing to check for problems. Damage to the upper portion of your lungs can be seen on a chest X-ray.
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