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Questions to Ask Your Health Care Provider About Ankylosing Spondylitis
- How can you be sure that my symptoms are caused by ankylosing spondylitis and not some other disease or disorder?
- Are there any specific diagnostic tests that can confirm the diagnosis of ankylosing spondylitis?
- If I do have ankylosing spondylitis, is there any evidence that it has affected my joints, eyes, heart, lungs, or other organs?
- Are any of my children also at risk for developing ankylosing spondylitis?
- To what extent can my symptoms of AS be controlled with medications?
- What are the most effective drugs used for the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis?
- I've taken NSAIDs in the past and have been told to stop because I have a stomach ulcer. What are my options if I can't tolerate NSAIDs?
- What types of exercise therapy would you recommend for helping me better control my symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis?
- Is a supervised group exercise program more effective for AS than an unsupervised individualized home-based exercise program?
- Do I have any underlying medical conditions that would prevent me from participating in an exercise program?
- At what point will you consider surgery as a treatment option for my AS?
- Will ankylosing spondylitis reduce my ability to function in performing tasks either at home or in the workplace?
- Are there any doctors or medical centers in this geographical area that specialize in managing patients with ankylosing spondylitis?
- What types of health care professionals will be involved in my treatment and follow-up evaluations?
