[Quality of life of patients with ankylosing spondylitis]

Ankylosing spondylitis is ranked second among "great rheumatic diseases" which lead to considerable disability. The course of ankylosing spondylitis is chronic with variations in intensity of symptoms and is either continuously progressive or alternates with exacerbations and remissions. Difficulties in everyday life are due to limited motoric activity which makes full self-functioning rather impossible. The specificity of ankylosing spondylitis negatively affects the emotional state of patients. Patients are depressed, apathetic, discouraged to undertake treatment and rehabilitation. The aim of the present study was to assess the quality of life of patients with ankylosing spondylitis in four dimensions: physical, psychic, environmental and social; to determine the severity of anxiety and depression associated with the disease; and to analyze the quality of life and health. Diagnostic questionnaires were used in this study. Our study has shown that patients are unsatisfied with the quality of their health. In the course of the disease, physical and psychic symptoms exacerbate. Support and help are especially needed by persons living alone and by residents of villages. It seems that professional care, psychic support, education of the patient and of persons caring for him, and preparation to self-care are an integral part of therapy which may have an important effect in improving the quality of life.