You finally get to your doctor’s appointment and completely forget the questions you wanted to ask or feel unprepared.

Not to worry. SAA has you covered with resources to help you prepare for your next appointment!

A diagnosis of spondyloarthritis can be daunting. But if you're armed with the right questions and resources, you'll feel confident to advocate for yourself or your loved ones!

Understanding your treatment plan and asking questions is a big part of advocating for yourself.

SAA's downloadable brochure, Talking to Your Doctor About Spondyloarthritis will help you get the most out of your visit.

The reality is that physicians today are stretched by time. That means it’s important for patients to prepare in advance to maximize every minute of their visit.

Two important topics for rheumatologists, whether you’ve been diagnosed, are your symptoms and family history:

• What makes your symptoms better or worse? Are there daily living tasks you struggle with?
• Family history should include whether family members have had conditions like psoriasis, inflammatory back pain, Rheumatic diseases, and inflammatory bowel diseases, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

In addition, keep a list of medications you have tried, the start date, response (was it effective, did you have adverse events from it) and discontinued date. 

Also, keep a list of diagnoses you have been given and the date (uveitis, psoriasis, enthesitis, ulcerative colitis, sciatica, AS, etc.). 

Remember to write your questions down before the appointment and bring a trusted loved one for support if you need help remembering new information.

Above all, it's important that you feel comfortable with your doctor and their staff. 

Find healthcare providers who will listen but also break down the basics and explain things in a way you can understand. Ideally, you will benefit from a shared team approach to help you find your best treatment path. It’s a marathon, not a sprint. ~ SAA Advocacy Committee Member and Patient Advocate, Sara Shaw

Do you have questions or anything to add? Email advocacy@spondylitis.org. 

We'd love to hear from you!