New and Lost
Hi I'm hoping to find some guidance or at least direction as to what I'm looking at. Yesterday I found out through a blood panel that I had drawn (for a separate issue a few months back) that I tested very high for multiple Rheumatoid Factors. He asked me if I have any arthritis and I told him yes I have been dealing with it in my lower back for years. I just recently started seeing a pain specialist for my lower back because after 14 years of chiropractic, massage and self care my back pain has become more unmanageable (I was in a massive car accident when I was 20). I've received epidural injection with no help and a recent facet injection with some relief. I'm scheduled to see a new PCP on Aug 2nd so for now I'm left wondering was the test only a glimpse of what's to come, or is it maybe what's caused the change in my back? I'm feeling a little shell shocked by all of this and I want to get a good understanding of what I'm in for. Any thoughts or advice would be appreciated.
Hi there Roseymomma, I'm glad you've reached out and I hope that our site and community can be a support and resource for you. There is no single test to diagnose RA. While Rheumatoid Factor can be helpful, an RA diagnosis is based primarily on clinical symptoms. Sorry to hear that your back pain has become less manageable recently. In addition to speaking with your doctor, these articles may be helpful to you:
How RA is Diagnosed: https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/diagnosis/
What RA Factor Means: https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/what-ra-factor-diagnosis-mean/
RA Stages and Progression: https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/what-is-ra/stages-and-progression/
Wishing you some answers and relief soon. Kelly, Rheumatoidarthritis.net Team Member
