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Can AS cause a person to have quick blackouts, a second or less?

A MySpondylitisTeam Member asked a question 💭
Belmar, NJ

I have been having very brief periods of short black outs, approximately 1-1/2 second long. It is like when someone pinches you very hard and your eyes close quickly and then open again. This also only occurs when I am driving a long distance which is very dangerous no matter how long it lasts. I do have spinal issues and had 3 ablations and one nerve block at the base of my skull.
I have mentioned it to several doctors and none seem that concerned.

October 21, 2025
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A MySpondylitisTeam Member

Blacking out of any duration while driving is dangerous, for sure. Have you discussed the blacking out episodes when driving long distances with a neurologist? Because you mention some spinal nerve issues and cervical spine abrasions, I think it would be wise to consult with a neurologist and/or a neurosurgeon to get to the root of the problem.

October 23, 2025
A MySpondylitisTeam Member

Thank you, I agree and appreciate your answer.

October 23, 2025
MySpondylitisTeam

These symptoms while driving are concerning and require immediate medical attention, regardless of what doctors have previously said. Brief blackouts could be related to AS affecting your cervical spine or nerve compression, which occurs in some people with AS. The fact that these episodes happen while driving makes this a Show Full Answer

These symptoms while driving are concerning and require immediate medical attention, regardless of what doctors have previously said. Brief blackouts could be related to AS affecting your cervical spine or nerve compression, which occurs in some people with AS. The fact that these episodes happen while driving makes this a serious safety issue that needs addressing right away. AS can affect the cervical spine and surrounding nerves in several ways:
• It can cause inflammation and compression of spinal nerves
• It may lead to bone formation that puts pressure on nerve pathways
• It can affect how the vertebrae move and function
• It might impact blood flow through spinal vessels

Until you can get proper medical evaluation, it would be safer to avoid long-distance driving or have someone else drive. Consider getting a second opinion from a neurologist who has experience with AS patients.

October 21, 2025

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