Dear Shanna,
Please find my answers-
1) Can a person still have RA and not show on a RA blood panel? Is this what sero-negative RA is?
Exactly.......
2) If a person has all the signs and symptoms that mirror RA, but it doesn't show in blood tests, what would be the next step in testing or treatment?
Well, treatment is more or less the same.
CCP is one test which is 99 % sensitive for RA. So you can get it done to be more sure about RA.
The best treatment is to visit the Rheumatologist and then start the DMARD (Disease Modifying anti-rheumatoid agent) as per the requirements.
I hope i was able to answer your questions.
Feel free to discuss more.
Regards
currently I am looking into ways to see a rheumatologist. I have a primary doctor for basic pain, but he is not a specialiist nor can I financially afford to see a Rheumatologist to get the meds to prevent further damage to my joints. Currently I don't think they must be replaced. but they will only deteriorate without proper treatment over time by an Rheumatologist. It's all about money in this country. If I work as a nurse to get the insurance becnefits I will have to damage my joints waiting to qualify for the insurance.if they even do because they coould consider a preconsisting condition and then they may deny coverage, that's if I can work long enough without my joints giving out before I can receive treatment.
Thank you for caring so much
Dear Friend Shanna,
Thanks a lot for all this.
I am basically from India and know very little about United States.
If you are planing to get treatment from India, then only i can help you , by giving you some good references.
You really need to see a good Rheumatoligist and then plan accordingly.
If the joints are in a bad shape, they need to be replaced.
Please tell me as how do you want me to help you out.
Regards..
Abhijeet Ghosh, MBBS,DNB- Neurology-Rheumatiod Artrhritis
Your my absolute favorite expert on Med-Help
Thank you for being bere for all of us who need you
I am a RN, but unable to work due to my poor health exp whith RA and Fibro, but you have given me some hope with the knowledge you share. I am forever grateful for you and all those who unselfishly help others have a better life. May whatever God/goddess you worship bless you ten fold.
Thank you so much, You have answered me in the most concise way yet, You are much appreciated. Do you know anywhere in northern CA atate to get free or sliding care help. I am so bad currently, I can't work and am use to being the bread winner with health insurance for my family . I am a nurse in this condition, Please help if you know of any help out there besides welfare!
:0) hugs