My grandmother had and my sister has troubles with their thyroids (hypothyroidism), although no AS. One prominent, yet undesirable feature of hypothyroidism is thinning and loss of hair. I'm not versed to the effect of steroids on thyroid function, but I can't imagine it is positive. Talking to your rheumy about having your thyroid checked might be beneficial.

Kind Regards,
Jay

Almost all of us long for peace and freedom; but very few of us have much enthusiasm for the thoughts, feelings, and actions that make for peace and freedom. - Aldous Huxley

Was the government to prescribe to us our medicine and diet, our bodies would be in such keeping as our souls are now. - Thomas Jefferson