Kickas.org Forums Ankylosing Spondylitis General Discussion #1 AS Web Support Group New here

I'll pass on this advice given to me when trips to the doctor's started on a regular basis. Get you a folder and always request copies of the test result performed on you. Keep your own records because if there is a discrepancy or you wish for a second opinion, you have everything you will need in your own hands. Also keep a sheet with your name, doctors, conditions, and meds you are on. This saves so much time by just handing that sheet to the nurse when her quiz starts. Remember that you are your own best advocate and it is best you take charge of your own healthcare.

Thanks, I will do that. I like the idea of having the test results to refer to if needed.
I see my dr on Thursday to get the results from the blood work, so I will ask for a copy of them.

Hi,

There are things you can do in working with your healthcare providers. This link to The Arthritis Society Publications Page includes a link to a 'resource kit' for patients. While you have not been diagnosed at this point, the tips can be helpful regardless. One of them is to take a friend or family member into appointments with you to ensure you don't miss something while you're trying to grapple with new information. I would encourage you to do so on Thursday so that you can handle lists of questions, symptoms, meds and things while your friend takes notes. Also, it's a second pair of ears that might catch something you've missed in what your GP is saying to you.

If you are still having eye pain from light (ie. you cannot look at your monitor) I strongly urge you to go to ER. Iritis is not to be ignored and can cause severe problems if untreated. It might not be iritis, but in this case, the old saw "it's better to be safe than sorry" applies.

Good luck on Thursday.

Warm Hugs,