Socioeconomic effects of ankylosing spondylitis.

Subjects with ankylosing spondylitis are frequently required to make many adjustments to their lifestyle. As these occur over many years, accommodation to the disease is usually accomplished adequately. However, it is important that the physician is aware of the functional problems, of which the patient will rarely complain, and should be able to advise and summon help, particularly with regard to employment and sexual activity. The problems of women with the illness need further exploration.