Ted,

The medication that I have been taking is Vioxx; been on it for about 3 years now with great results. Doc took me off of it until it is determined what is causing my problems.

I do a lot of reading up on AS and related conditions (both here and various med websites) and I agree with you, the GP's knowledge is not that strong. I see a rheumy every 6 months but may have to increase the frequency of those visits. My GP and Rheumy are very good about sharing information and consulting with each other.

I had the upper GI done this morning but do not know the results yet. I asked the radiologist if he had seen anything abnormal, he said he needed time to develop the pictures and that my GP would contact me either today or tomorrow. I'm hoping everything comes out normal, but at the same time, I want some answers as to why I'm feeling so lousy.

I'm starting to think that the neck and shoulder pain I'm having may be unrelated to my gastro problem. Thinking back, I may have done something to a muscle or nerve while lifting weights and the Vioxx masked the symptoms. Maybe being off the Vioxx has allowed the normal pain triggers to kick in. Just a theory! Speaking of being off the Vioxx, I've been forced to remember what morning pain and stiffness are like again; I haven't had this problem (other than a couple minor flares) in a couple of years. I guess I should count my blessings.

Take Care,
Steve