does elevated RA factor mean...

Avatar for raynardm
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-26-2003
does elevated RA factor mean...
5
Sun, 11-06-2005 - 1:24am
does this mean I would have RA? I am tested on a semi regular basis for several issues because I have CFIDS and Fibromyalgia. For the first time my results had several different or new results, including a RA factor of 38. (and elevated CRP, but thats always elevated in me..it was a lot higher than usual though)
I have many of the symptoms and the doctor and I have always chalked it up to my other illnesses, but now I am wondering....should I go see a specialist??? thanks---I know that a key in the illnes is catching it early so better safe than sorry....amanda
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Registered: 03-25-2003
Sun, 11-06-2005 - 6:37am

Dear Amanda since you have already been diagnosed with auto immune problems it could be feasible that you do have RA and it has been masked,or your fibromyalgia has been RA all along. Equally you may not have RA at all.

I am sure Molly will give you the links that explain what the RA factor is and what it means.

You can have RA and have a negative RA factor, or just a small RA factor or a high one (mine was a 1000s & something with a normal CRP at the time.) Pathology results just paint part of the picture a correct diagnosis would involve other physcial factors, signs & symptoms.

As you would be aware it is often very hard for a diagnosis of an auto immune illness.

I think either way it would be in your best interest to see a rhematologits. Lell

Avatar for raynardm
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Registered: 03-26-2003
Mon, 11-07-2005 - 12:41pm
thanks for your post, lell. Ill definitely see a rheumatologist and try to get a better picture of whats going on.
thanks again! amanda
iVillage Member
Registered: 11-03-2003
Mon, 11-07-2005 - 1:20pm

Hello Amanda

Molly

Avatar for raynardm
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-26-2003
Thu, 11-10-2005 - 10:59pm
thanks, molly youre very sweet. As soon as my new insurance card comes in, Ill begin the Rhumy DR. search. :)
iVillage Member
Registered: 11-03-2003
Fri, 11-11-2005 - 12:37pm
Good for you, Amanda.

Molly