Kickas.org Forums Ankylosing Spondylitis General Discussion #1 AS Web Support Group IS THIS STRANGE?

Hi all, this is another example of why this has to be one of the most frustrating conditions possible! Getting a diagnosis is so difficult!
I also have gastro issues with my AS. It used to be just that I would get constipated when flaring, but since I had to quit the Enbrel and then Humira I feel like I am in a constant flare. I take methotrexate, but it doesn't work like they did.

There can also be a link between mechanical issues and GI symptoms. I had an injury to my lower back years ago, and there was a definite connection between my fall and my GI system going haywire. As nerves get tweaked and pinched from mechanical issues, the digestive tract stops functioning as designed.

Now, most of my issue is the large amounts of morphine I take daily to function.

No that's ok James!! I didn't think you were implying that at all . I am thinking I don't have it from the lack of "physical" proof. Not that I want to have it, but I would be really peeved if down the track I was diagnosed with it and I knew I could have done something years ago to prevent it (or prolong it) if I had have known. I would be one very unhappy camper. I think that is my worst fear, that I just go along as per normal then find out years down the track I have it and could have done something to help it (so to speak).

I seem to have the same issue as Sue does (being that I have the inflammation where the tendons and ligaments are) but no fusing (which is a good thing!). I am only 33, so maybe it will take a few years before I get a diagnosis of any kind? The Rhuemy I am currently seeing wants me back every 3 months at this stage to monitor everything as I do have minor degeneration in my sacro joint (but this could possibly be just wear and tear I imagine?). He is pretty keen for me to get the colonoscopy too. I think this is why he didn't charge me for the last visit as he told me to put the money towards getting the colonoscopy....