You may have had back pain or morning stiffness for a while, and when you saw a doctor, you were diagnosed with Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS). You may have been referred to a specialist who specializes in this condition. If this is your first time seeing a specialist, you may be a little curious, even nervous. You may have many questions, such as, 'What will happen?', 'What will they ask?', 'What should I say?' That's why we wanted to talk about this and prepare you well for it.
Who is this Rheumatologist?
Simply put, a rheumatologist is a doctor who specializes in diseases of our joints, muscles, and skeletal system. This means that these specialists treat all types of arthritis, including your Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS).
Because AS is a long-term condition, it will need to be managed throughout your life. So, a specialist who is well-versed in the disease can help you find the treatment and management plan that is best for you. The main goals of treatment are to:
- Reducing your pain and stiffness.
- Helping you move well and stay active.
- Preventing the illness from getting worse.
Let's get ready before going to see the doctor.
To get the most out of your time with your doctor, it's important to come prepared. This will make it easier for you and your doctor to understand your situation. Remember to bring these things with you.
| What to prepare | Things to consider |
|---|---|
| Your symptoms | Remember as specifically as possible where the pain or stiffness is, what time of day it is most felt, how long it has been there, and what makes it worse. |
| The medications you are taking | Tell us about all the medications you are currently taking (including those for other conditions) and any medications you are allergic to. |
| Other health problems | Tell your doctor about any other medical conditions you have or have had in the past. |
| Family medical history | If anyone in your family has AS or other types of arthritis, let them know. |
| Previous test reports | If you have previously had an X-ray or MRI of the area of pain, bring those reports and films with you. Or, ask the specialist's office where the tests were performed to send them to you. |
What questions should you ask the doctor?
It is important to ask your questions to fully understand your condition and treatment. You may forget your questions when you get there. Therefore, it is a good idea to write them down on a piece of paper . You can also record the doctor's answers on your phone, with permission. Here are some questions you can ask:
- What is the best thing I can do for this pain?
- If I change what I eat (diet), can I reduce my symptoms ?
- What can I do to feel comfortable while sleeping?
- Will my AS condition get better or worse in the future?
- Can I have other health problems because of AS?
- How long after starting treatment can I expect results?
- What do I do if I experience side effects from the medication while taking this treatment?
- Are there any activities I can't do or should avoid?
- How long until I see the doctor again?
What will happen at the meeting?
Your first appointment may last an hour or more. Don't worry , this time is taken to fully understand your situation.
First, talking to you
The doctor will carefully review your symptoms and the test results you have brought. To gain a deeper understanding of your symptoms, they may ask questions like these:
- "When did the pain start?"
- "How often does the pain come?"
- "What makes the pain worse?"
- "Does the pain decrease when you exercise and move your body?"
Second, Physical Exam
Then, the doctor will examine you physically. The main thing to look at is how well you can move your spine and joints, how much your chest expands, and whether you experience pain when doing certain movements. You may be asked to do things like:
- Bend in different directions.
- Take a deep breath.
- Move the legs and hip joints into different positions.
This test allows the doctor to get a good idea of your body's range of motion and the areas where pain occurs.
Third, the necessary tests
You may be referred for several more tests to confirm your condition.
- Imaging Tests: You may also be asked to have a new X-ray or MRI . These can help your doctor see if there is inflammation in the sacroiliac joints in your lower back, which is a key symptom of AS.
- Blood Tests: Blood tests may be done to check for markers of inflammation in the blood. Sometimes, a blood test may also be done to check for a gene called HLA-B27 , which is found in more than 95% of people with AS.
Take-Home Message
- Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a long-term condition, so it is important to be under the care of a rheumatologist.
- Before seeing the doctor, prepare all your symptoms, medications, and previous medical records in order.
- Don't be afraid to ask your doctor any questions or concerns you have. If necessary, write down your questions.
- Support the physical examination and recommended tests performed by your doctor. These are essential for your diagnosis and treatment plan.
- By following your doctor's instructions exactly and attending clinics on time, you can manage this condition well and live a healthy life.
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