Anon, that's a great question, and one that isn't the simplest to answer. The RF test looks for an elevated amount of rheumatoid factor (antibodies) in your blood. High levels of RF in your blood can mean you have RA or Sjogren's Syndrome (but not always). Some healthy people have RF in their blood without having RA, and some people with autoimmune conditions can have normal levels of RF in their blood.
Clear as mud, isn't it? I know. Maybe this will help some, it's the Mayo Clinic's explanation of the test. Be sure to click on the links to the left, which tell you why it's done, what to expect, and results:
Can you tell if it's actually the JOINTS in your hand that are hurting?
I would suggest starting over, since it has been a few years and you have new symptoms. Do you have a regular family doctor or even an ob/gyn you trust who might recommend you to another specialist?
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Anon, that's a great question, and one that isn't the simplest to answer. The RF test looks for an elevated amount of rheumatoid factor (antibodies) in your blood. High levels of RF in your blood can mean you have RA or Sjogren's Syndrome (but not always). Some healthy people have RF in their blood without having RA, and some people with autoimmune conditions can have normal levels of RF in their blood.
Clear as mud, isn't it? I know. Maybe this will help some, it's the Mayo Clinic's explanation of the test. Be sure to click on the links to the left, which tell you why it's done, what to expect, and results:
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/rheumatoid-factor/MY00241
Can you tell if it's actually the JOINTS in your hand that are hurting?
I would suggest starting over, since it has been a few years and you have new symptoms. Do you have a regular family doctor or even an ob/gyn you trust who might recommend you to another specialist?
September 24, 2009 - 9:01amThis Comment
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