Need Help With Diagnosis.
Hi everyone. So I sort of feel like a fraud because I haven't been diagnosed with RA... Yet. I have all the stiffness, morning swelling in hands, flu-like fatigue, flushing and hot hands... There is literally a laundry list of other symptoms that k won't go into. My RF was just slightly elevated and that was what prompted my GP to send me to a rheumatologist. I also had an episode 5 years ago where my RF was slightly elevated, but was within normal range 3 month later when retested.
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My xrays and blood are fine also. I had an mri of my hands that confirmed ra.
There are many types of Arthritis. I have Reactive arthritis, it attacks tendons and connective tissue. I am RF sero-negative but I am treated with Rh drugs. My RH startedmthe meds right away, I saw him twice a month for 6 months.
Write down in a notebook daily pain level. What hurts, how bad it is and what you did. This is your best defense for your appt. You could have things associated with RA but also Fibro or something else. Be vigilant and try to get a 2nd opinion after you keep your diary for a few months!
There is 'sero-negative' Rheumatoid arthritis. Basically the typical lab tests can be normal but you experience the RA symptoms. Keep a daily log about your day, fatigue, meds, pain. Take it with you to the doctor for review. Your story sounds very similar to many of us. Don't get discouraged. HUGS
It was several years before my RF was positive. But, I had all the outward signs and was blessed to find medical providers who took that all seriously and treated me. Keep looking till you find the right Rheumatologist. Good luck!
Keep up with reading on this site and others and go back to dr if you are really hurting! Remember the dr is supposed to care and if not find another one!
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