Ankylosing Spondylitis Causes

Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that primarily affects the spine and sacroiliac joints, causing pain and stiffness and potentially leading to spinal fusion over time. The exact cause of ankylosing spondylitis is not fully understood, but several factors contribute to its development. These include genetics, immune system dysfunction, environmental factors, and injuries. Here is an overview of the causes and factors that may contribute to the development and progression of ankylosing spondylitis

Genetic Factors

• HLA-B27 Gene: The presence of the HLA-B27 gene is the most significant genetic risk factor for ankylosing spondylitis. Around 90-95% of people with AS test positive for this gene, but HLA-B27 alone does not guarantee the development of the disease. Many people with the gene never develop AS, and some individuals without the gene can still develop the disease.
• Family History: A family history of ankylosing spondylitis or other spondyloarthropathies can increase the likelihood of developing the disease, although not all family members will necessarily be affected.

Immune System Dysfunction

• Autoimmune Mechanism: Ankylosing spondylitis is an autoimmune disease, which means the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy tissues. In AS, the immune system targets the joints and ligaments of the spine, leading to chronic inflammation. Over time, this inflammation can cause joint damage, pain, and spinal fusion.
• Inflammatory Response: The immune system’s inflammatory response is driven by certain proteins, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and interleukins (IL), which play a role in the inflammation of the joints.

Environmental Triggers

• Infections: Certain infections, particularly gastrointestinal or genitourinary infections, may act as environmental triggers for ankylosing spondylitis in individuals genetically predisposed to the disease. These infections can cause the immune system to behave abnormally, potentially triggering the onset of AS.
• Stress: Both physical and emotional stress can exacerbate the symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis or trigger flare-ups of the disease.

Trauma or Injury

• Trauma and Injury: Trauma or injury to the spine or joints can contribute to the development or worsening of ankylosing spondylitis in susceptible individuals. While trauma does not directly cause AS, it can lead to inflammation in previously affected joints, contributing to further pain and stiffness.

Flare-Ups and Symptoms

• Flare-Up Triggers: The symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis may worsen during flare-ups. These flare-ups can be triggered by factors such as stress, infection, physical strain, or lack of movement. During a flare-up, the inflammation becomes more pronounced, causing increased pain and stiffness.
• Headaches: While ankylosing spondylitis primarily affects the spine and joints, it can also lead to headaches in some individuals, often as a result of inflammation in the neck or cervical spine.
• Abdominal Pain: Some people with ankylosing spondylitis experience abdominal pain due to involvement of the gastrointestinal tract. This can be related to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which is often associated with AS.
• Anaemia: Anemia is common in individuals with ankylosing spondylitis due to chronic inflammation affecting red blood cell production. It is often a secondary condition that accompanies AS.
• Ankle Pain: AS can also cause ankle pain as inflammation spreads to other joints, including the ankles. This is especially common in the later stages of the disease.

Can Ankylosing Spondylitis Cause Death?

While ankylosing spondylitis itself is rarely fatal, complications arising from AS can increase the risk of serious conditions, such as cardiovascular disease. Individuals with AS may have an increased risk of heart disease, lung problems, and kidney disease, which can indirectly lead to a reduced life expectancy.

Curapod can complement the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis by providing non-invasive relief for pain, muscle stiffness, and inflammation. As ankylosing spondylitis causes chronic inflammation and pain in the spine and joints, Curapod uses electrical stimulation to help relax muscles, reduce muscle spasms, and promote blood circulation. This can be particularly useful during flare-ups when symptoms are more pronounced. Curapod supports mobility and helps manage pain more effectively, allowing individuals with ankylosing spondylitis to enhance their physical therapy efforts and maintain an active lifestyle, even in the presence of chronic inflammation.

References

1. Mayo Clinic, 2025. Ankylosing Spondylitis: Symptoms and Causes. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ankylosing-spondylitis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352477 [Accessed 20 February 2025].
2. American College of Rheumatology, 2025. Ankylosing Spondylitis: Diagnosis and Treatment. Available at: https://www.rheumatology.org/Practice-Tools/Diseases-and-Conditions/Ankylosing-Spondylitis [Accessed 20 February 2025].
3. Spine-Health, 2025. Ankylosing Spondylitis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment. Available at: https://www.spine-health.com/conditions/neck-pain/ankylosing-spondylitis [Accessed 20 February 2025].