Preparing for an appointment

You might first bring your symptoms to the attention of your family doctor. He or she may refer you to a doctor who specializes in inflammatory disorders (rheumatologist).

Here's some information to help you get ready for your appointment.

What you can do

Make a list of:

• Your symptoms, including any that may seem unrelated to the reason you made the appointment, and when they began
• Key personal information, including major stresses, recent life changes and family medical history
• All medications, vitamins and other supplements you take and their doses
• Questions to ask your doctor

Take a family member or friend along, if possible, to help you remember the information you're given.

For ankylosing spondylitis, basic questions to ask your doctor include:

• What's likely causing my symptoms?
• Other than the most likely cause, what are other possible causes for my symptoms?
• What tests do I need?
• Is my condition likely temporary or chronic?
• What's the best course of action?
• What are the alternatives to the primary approach you're suggesting?
• I have these other health conditions. How can I best manage them together?
• Are there restrictions I need to follow?
• Should I see a specialist?
• Are there brochures or other printed material I can have? What websites do you recommend?

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor is likely to ask you questions, such as:

• Where is your pain?
• How severe is your pain?
• Have your symptoms been continuous or occasional?
• What, if anything, seems to worsen or improve your symptoms?
• Have you taken medications to relieve the pain? What helped most?