Amy G. in Plantsville
Our family has just found out that my husband, 44, has AS. He probably has for years. He has had ulcerative colitis since he was 11. Our research has discovered that the colitis, the uveitis, (eye), the odd heel pain, birsitis resulting in hip surgery, and on and on to the tune of 23 major surgeries are all under the AS umbrella. We have an appointment with a rheumatologist this Tuesday. His pain is not really in his back, although the MRI shows real advanced progression, including lots of spurs along his spine. Our biggest hurdle for years, even before we got this label has been pain management. Demerol has worked, but ongoing use is impractical. What questions should we be asking of the doctor? And....should we proceed quickly on having our children tested for the gene? Thanks for your help!