Ankylosing spondylitis is a type of arthritis that causes pain, inflammation and stiffness in your spine and other joints. This health problem usually manifests in young men, and most people with this condition -- 95 percent, according to the Spondylitis Association of America -- possess the HLA-B27 genetic marker. At least one scientific study has shown that fish oil may be helpful in treating your ankylosing spondylitis-related symptoms, although you should always clear the use of this supplement for this health purpose with your physician first.
Ankylosing Spondylitis
Low-back and buttock pain are among the first symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis to manifest, reports the Arthritis Foundation. Most people with this condition will experience progressive spinal stiffening and eventual fusion of some or all of the spinal joints. Other common signs and symptoms associated with ankylosing spondylitis include inflammation of your sacroiliac joints, decreased spinal range of motion, fatigue, fever and weight loss. Vision problems, inflammatory bowel disease and osteoporosis are all possible complications associated with ankylosing spondylitis.
About Fish Oil
Fish oil contains both eicosapentaenoic acid, or EPA, and docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA, which are two special types of omega-3 fatty acids. EPA and DHA are found in numerous types of fish, including albacore tuna, anchovies, black cod, sardines, herring, salmon and mackerel, although many people ingest fish oil supplements containing a more concentrated dose of omega-3 fatty acids. According to Dr. Alan R. Gaby, a medical doctor and author of "The Natural Pharmacy," most fish oil supplements contain about 18 percent EPA and 12 percent DHA.
Fish Oil Health Benefits
Fish oil may be one of the most useful nutritional supplements in treating your ankylosing spondylitis. A 2006 study by B. Sundstrom and colleagues published in the "Scandinavian Journal of Rheumatology" concludes that omega-3 fatty acids -- one of the principle constituents in fish oil -- may help mitigate the disease activity of ankylosing spondylitis when consumed in sufficient doses. However, the researchers note that more randomized controlled clinical research trials are required before definitive conclusions can be drawn about fish oil's true effectiveness in treating this health problem.
Additional Information
Along with spinal fusion and significantly reduced spinal range of motion, ankylosing spondylitis complications may include cardiac arrhythmias, aortic heart valve problems and pulmonary fibrosis. Ankylosing spondylitis is a serious health problem that requires medical intervention or the attention of another qualified healthcare practitioner. Before using fish oil or other supplements to help treat your ankylosing spondylitis, ask your doctor about the risks, benefits, limitations and efficacy of these natural healing substances.
