The most common cause of death in ankylosing spondylitis is cardiovascular disease (CVD). CVD is a general term that refers to any type of heart or blood vessel disorder, such as coronary artery disease, heart attack, stroke, and high blood pressure. Other common causes of death in ankylosing spondylitis are respiratory failure, infections, and complications related to the disease, such as inflammation of the abdominal aorta.
People with ankylosing spondylitis are at an increased risk of developing CVD due to several factors. These include reduced physical activity, increased inflammation, and a genetic predisposition. People with ankylosing spondylitis are also more likely to have other conditions that can increase their risk of CVD, such as diabetes, high cholesterol, and obesity.
The best way to reduce the risk of CVD in ankylosing spondylitis is to maintain a healthy lifestyle. This includes quitting smoking, eating a balanced and healthy diet, exercising regularly, and managing stress. It is also important to take any medications prescribed by your doctor to manage the disease and to stay in regular contact with your doctor to monitor your condition.