How long did you experience symptoms before being diagnosed?
Many people experience symptoms of AxSpA for quite some time before being diagnosed. Some people are misdiagnosed, while others are dismissed as having simply back pain. What was your experience like?
I haven't really had a real diagnosis yet the rheumatologist said I have sevre rheumatoid in my hands but told me to go to the U of M to be studied he tried to get me on Orencea bur my insurance wouldn't pay for it and I had already tried 2 different meds my hands are numb and tingly I've had 3 spine surgeries and 2 neck and 2 shoulder and I am a breast cancer survivor I am in a o much pain daily.
11 years. My new rheumatologist, who took over for my old one, who was great. He moved and they hired her & she tries to tell me she thinks it could be fibromyalgia or pain from Tarlov cysts but I just laugh because the only meds that have helped are DMARDS, bio's & Jak's. I'd switch Dr's but we only have a few in my area so I'm stuck with her at least for now. Not all doctors are worth the air they breathe!
Thank you for sharing your experience. I am glad you were able to advocate for yourself, but it is not easy, is it? Here's an interesting article about how to advocate for yourself at the doctor's office. How did you find the strength to speak up? All the best, Kathy (Team member)
Years.
I was sent home with antidepressants medication. It’s wasn’t until my eye swelled up into my head that the extreme inflammation was detected. My AS is something most women don’t experience. AS was ruled out even though my uncles were born with it. Women who have been diagnosed with AS fine that it’s very severe.
it’s been a journey for sure. My second biologic has failed so I’m now in the process of working on something else. Im just working on day to day for now. Thank you for sharing your story. Because of your doctor's responses, you may be interested in what one of our health leaders wrote about the bias against diagnosing AS in women. I wish you success with your next treatment program. All the best, Kathy (Team member)
