What symptoms of AS do you experience?
Chronic, long-term back pain is one of the most commonly reported health problems in the United States. Not surprisingly, back pain is also the most reported symptom by people living with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA).
Other symptoms may also occur with axSpA, such as uveitis, fatigue, psoriasis, heel, shoulder, foot, and other joint pain.
Severe neck and back pain. Unable to sleep many nights. Ibuprofen causes me to gain weight, other meds make me puke. Have had injection in my neck (haha) did not help at all. Years ago a rheumatologist said he didn't see damage so it wasn't bad.
I am sorry you are having trouble finding a treatment that works for you. Sleepless nights, weight gain, and nausea are awful! You mention that, years ago, a rheumatologist didn't see significant damage. Have you seen one recently? AxSPa is a progressive illness, so another visit may be worthwhile. Another visit may also lead you to some of the newer treatments that might be available to you. All the best, Kathy (team member)
Pain all over
I hate to for you. AS symptoms all over the place can be so frustrating. Do you have anything that makes it a little easier to get through those painful days? -Latoya (Team Member)
Severe pain
I am so sorry you are experiencing this! Have you found any particular way to help you manage the pain? (For many community members, pain management is a trial-and-error process) One of our health leaders wrote an article about the things she does to manage the pain. Warmly, Kathy (Team member)
It still amazes me when I tell someone in the medical field that I have AS and they ask: What is that? Then trying to explain what it is and they still can’t understand. I have learned to just tell them they should look it up. So frustrating!
It is maddening when you are put into that situation, isn't it? You aren't alone, unfortunately. One of our health leaders found herself in a similar spot and wrote this article with tips on the importance of advocating for herself and educating her healthcare team. I'm sorry you are in this situation, too. Warmly, Kathy (Team member)
