What causes ankylosing spondylitis?

Condition analysis:
We're not entirely sure. So far medical research has shown that 96% of people with Ankylosing Spondylitis all share the same genetic cell marker - Human Leucocyte Antigen B27 (HLA-B27). It is possible that some normally harmless micro-organism, which on this occasion the immune system cannot fight, comes into contact with HLA-B27 and sets up an adverse reaction. Sometimes bowel infections appear to spark off AS. Symptoms may also become apparent after a period of enforced bed rest, for example following a car accident, accelerating a previously existing mild condition.

A group of symptoms known as Reiter's Syndrome may also lead to AS. These include iritis (or uveitis) which is inflammation of part of the iris; and conjunctivitis which causes red, gritty and painful eyes. People with Reiter's Syndrome also suffer from urethritis. This is inflammation of the urethra, the tube that conveys urine from the bladder out of the body. This results in pain on passing urine, discharge on the end of the penis (especially on waking up in the morning) and an increased frequency of passing urine. Women may get the pain but won't notice a discharge from the urethra. Reiter's Syndrome also results in arthritis, affecting the large joints, especially in the legs, together with pain in the joints of the lower back particularly at night or on waking.

Instructions:
1. Potassium Rich Foods: Potassium is known to decrease inflammation if it is present in the body in adequate amounts. Foods that contain potassium in high amounts are bananas, almonds, apricots, and broccoli.

2. Vitamin D: You must correct the vitamin D deficiency in your body if you are suffering from ankylosis. Bones need Vitamin D in greater amounts when they are affected by a disease.

The foods rich in vitamin D are fish, eggs, and beef liver. You can also consume cheese.