Frequency of Tests for Inflammation and RA Factor
I am just curious how often Doctors (RA specialist) test for inflammation. I have had RA for going on 20 years and seem to be in a flareup. I have asked about if he ever does tests to see if numbers changed but my doctor just kind of ignores me. (He is not a doctor with good rapport with patients, but can't find a new doc.) My sisters both got diagnosed with RA recently and they said their doctors check all the time. Anyway, just curious as to others' experience.
Hi,
! I am so sorry you are dealing with a flare right now. When it comes to testing for inflammation, it can vary widely from doctor to doctor. Some doctors will do physical exams and bloodwork pretty regularly, especially if you are in a suspected flare. Other doctors don't see the point, as they will take your word for it that you are in a flare and bloodwork results can be misleading at times (i.e.; you are showing signs of being in a flare but your bloodwork comes back 'normal'😉. Sometimes, doctors will do blood tests to make sure an RA medication is working effectively for a patient. I realize you're kind of 'stuck' with the rheumatologist you have right now, but does he at least agree that you are in a flare and offer treatment options? Or is he disregarding your concerns and intuition completely. Because if it's the latter, that really *is* a problem, in my opinion. I hope you get some helpful answers from other community members, too. But, if push comes to shove, you have the right to request testing.
I do hope your flare passes quickly!
Best, Erin, RheumatoidArthritis.net Team Member.My doctor (Rheumatologist) checks every time I see him, which is every 3 months or if needed sooner. If the flare or flares continue, you could ask to be tested (push for it) and ask if a medication change might be in order. There is also a test called Vectar DA that can help to see how active your RA is while on your current medication, maybe suggesting that could be helpful and let you / your doctor know if a medication change might be in order. Just my thoughts on the matter, hope you get some relief soon!
It's so great that you have a doctor that checks this for you regularly. I like how you mentioned the need to push for it as sometimes we don't get the help we need without having to advocate strongly for it. , having a RA doctor who listens and has a good relationship with their patients is so important and I hate to hear that you're having a hard time right now in this area as I know it contributes greatly to the kind of help you receive to manage your RA. Have you ever considered seeing a Pain Specialist too? They are also skilled in helping with an array of different pains from different kinds of chronic illness. Here is an article on how a Pain Specialist could help if you can find one in your area- https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/pain-management-specialist. I also want to share with you an article that talks about Vectra DA testing as mention from our member and how it can possibly be a testing option for you- https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/clinical/vectra-score. I truly hope you et some answers and help soon! Hang in there and keep us updated on your journey. Warmly, Latoya (Team Member)
I am on a number of medication‘s, Humira, prednisone, methotrexate and sulfasalazine. I just started the Humira and I’m gradually reducing and trying to get off of the others. My rheumatologist has always checked my blood every four months and does the check for inflammation. I think mostly because of the meds that I am on. I agree with the others push your doctor for the blood test. Wishing you all the best!
I remember those days myself, all those blood tests and the constant monitoring with some of the biologics I was on. It was annoying, for sure, but they did it to protect my liver and other organs, especially as a kid. Of course back then I didn’t understand it but it was certainly worth it as today my organs are still going strong. Just remember, you are not alone! Keep on keepin’ on, DPM
My Rheumatologist does bloodwork every time I see him or his PA. I have had RA for almost 17 years. I was doing really well and asked why. Because I had a very high CRP for the first 5 years he wanted to keep a regular schedule. I had a terrible set of flares at the end of a vacation with family last month, but because the bloodwork was kept they knew it was stress, flying & getting over COVID. Labs after getting home and settled were back to normal. That also showed me I am in good hands even if mine do not work well!
Good Luck 🍀Same. He makes me get blood test every time I see I’m or he won’t give me my scripts. I don’t love that part but I get it - monitoring my numbers is certainly important, especially after thirty years of heavy meds and a cancer diagnosis. You are not alone! Keep on keepin’ on, DPM 
Hi
. Yes, I think regular bloodwork can help in a lot ways. On top of the things you and mentioned, there are also the things it tells doctors about RA in general. With an interlueken-6 treatment that my wife, Kelly Mack (a contributor here), has been on for several years now, her CRP inflammation numbers have been in the normal range regularly for the first time in over 40 years. Yet, she sometimes seems to still have flares and signs of inflammation. Her doctor has discusses inflammation that current tests simply doesn't measure. Without the regular testing this "missing inflammation" would be unknown. The field moves forward and new directions for research can be spotted by what is found or, sometimes, not found in the regular bloodwork of patients. Best, Richard (RheumatoidArthritis.net Team)
