No Diagnosis, But The Pain Is Real

By cee56

1 min read

I'm not sure if I have A.S.

There seems to be a lack of anyone hearing me when I'm seeking help to deal with my pain.

I know on my last MRI the said I have a multi-level of spondylosis.

How do I talk to my doctor about AS?

I want to know how to approach my Dr. to ask that they figured out what's going on with my body.

Some days I'm in so much pain that I can't find any relief. I have flare-ups that last for days where I hurt from my neck to the bottom of my feet.

I've always had low back pain for about 30 years.

The pain is from my depression

I have tried multiple pain relievers. For years I wore Fentanyl patches and got no relief. I went through several facets injections that lasted for about 4 hrs. No relief.

When I'm standing now feels like someone is trying to pull my spine out and my legs and both sides get numb.

Of course, I have suffered from major depression for years, so sometimes I think my Drs believe my pain is all in my mind.

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Cassia Pelton Contributor
Hi there, I'm so glad you found our AS community. We are here to listen and help! I'm sorry you've been dealing with so much pain. The information on this page may help you: <a href='https://ankylosingspondylitis.net/diagnosis/' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>https://ankylosingspondylitis.net/diagnosis/</a> Educating yourself about AS will arm you with knowledge when you approach your doctor. Have you seen a rheumatologist yet? If not, I would recommend asking your doctor to refer you to one. A rheumatologist will be able to give you a specific diagnosis and treatment options for AS. These treatment options may include biologics or NSAIDS, which could be more effective for you than painkillers alone. Having AS, I've learned that you sometimes have to be "pushy" with doctors and stand your ground. You are the only person who can feel your pain. Doctors may try to dismiss you, but you must repeat that you know there is something going on. You know your body best! I don't deal with depression, but I've had some doctors suggest my pain is due to stress, growth, or playing sports... but I knew it was something more. Here in the AS community, we understand that your pain is not all in your head. Please let us know if you have any more questions about talking to your doctor and getting a diagnosis... best of luck to you, and I look forward to hearing about your diagnosis journey. I hope you can find some relief.
1. cee56 Member
 Thank you Cassie I am going to ask my primary care Dr about seeing the Dr you suggested.
2. vinniec Member
 I believe a lot of us are in the same boat about getting dismissed in our reporting the symptoms of our disease. Be specific and tell them what you think you have(AS) and ask them if you can be referred to a rheumatologist or, at least, have your blood tested for the antigen, HLA-B27(FYI see also: <a href='https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003551.htm' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003551.htm</a>). As you will notice there, a couple of arthritis types can be indicated by that test. Hopefully, you won't test positive, but, if you do, you may catch it earlier than some of us have. Good luck!

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