Hi Barbara,

I think you found the right place here at Kickas. In regards to diagnosis a few items to consider that are some times used in diagnosing AS.

- Family history - Any other family members with similar syptoms or even possibly diagnosed with AS?
- ESR test - most, but not all ASer's will show elevated ESR (active inflamation test). I actually do not show elevated levels despite real bad inflamation at times
- Stiffness early in morning that gradually improves throughout the day
- X-ray evidence of "fusion"

You did state that you were HLA-b27 positive... this is a good indication you may have AS. Your symptoms sound familiar.

Hope you like it here at Kickas, a lot to learn here in learning to live with AS or other chronic conditions.

Take care,

Tim

Hope is only a post away with KickAS.

AS may win some battles, but I will win the war.

KONK - Keep ON Kicking