Thanks for the replies! I am feeling very positive in general about this process... my GI doc visit today was great, she readily agreed to refer me to a rheumatologist that she knows and works with, and they can get me in to see her next week. I'll also be doing both upper and lower endoscopy in about a month. Sounds like a real adventure! I am sure that the rheumy will order some further testing as well.
I've never had eye issues, which seems like it could point away from AS, but it's good to know that there are others who haven't had eye issues as well. I am located in the SF Bay Area so a trip up to UCSF isn't out of the question if it gets to that point, but so far I am pretty impressed with my medical team down here in Palo Alto.
