It Explained Everything!

I graduated from hygiene school in 2012, and within four years I needed bilateral carpal tunnel release surgery. I was also having back/hip/buttock pain and was waking up so stiff, my daughter had to help me get my boots on.

I was at the end of myself with pain all over and brutal fatigue. I told my primary doctor that I thought I might have fibromyalgia. She sent me to a rheumatologist who diagnosed me with ankylosing spondylitis.

What is ankylosing spondylitis

I'd never heard of it and thought he was a quack, till he gave me an educational brochure/booklet that discussed the disease and possible symptoms. Boy, oh boy! What an eye-opener! I could check almost every box on the list! Pain and issues I'd had since CHILDHOOD finally all made sense.

Although it sucks to have AS, I was just glad to know that I wasn't imagining things and could finally start treating the root of my problems.

Still in pain

I'm still not happy with my meds, as far as pain relief, and can only work 2 days a week. I struggle with isolation and trouble losing weight because I can't get any exercise other than stretching. My feet are under attack almost always, so it's very painful to stand much or walk around.

It's all ok in the end; I know this life is fleeting and my eternity will be heavenly!