Positive ANA Screen

[TomzGirl]

Hi,  I was just told I have a positive ANA test.  I have been feeling bad for a few months..running a fever, sore joints/muscles, a re-occuring rash on my cheeks, and the fatigue is crazy.  So, my doctor sent me to a speicalist and I had a ANA profile, comp3, comp4, UA, ESR and a chest x-ray today.  

I was wondering how long it usually takes to get results back? Should I be freaked out?

I could not get a real read from my specialist.  He seemed like he was not concerned, even though I feel like I have the flu and I do not.  I asked him what I could do about the fatigue and he said that he did not know.  He is supposed to be good, but I guess his lack of interest to me is what I am not sure about.  Of course, maybe he does not want to say anything until he knows what is going on...I am not sure.

I am just putting this out there to see if this is common patient care, when should I expect to know what the tests are, and should I be freaking out?  If there is a positive ANA and I feel terrible, there has to be something up....right?

I appreciate any input....Thank you!


This discussion is related to Postive ANA Profile.

[txsilver]

Hello and welcome!  The wait for test results to come back can feel like torture.  The length of time until you get results depends on where they sent them and what tests were being run, but usually they come back in a week or so.  You can always call the Dr.s office to follow up.
Is your doctor a rheumatologist?  If you do not feel you are making a connection with him then I would suggest you find another doctor.  Keep going until you find one that takes an interest in your case, listens to you and makes you feel like you can partner with them to develop your treatment plan.  A positive relationship with your doctor is essential.
I can tell you not to freak out, to sit tight and wait for the results, but that is much easier said than done.  As best you can, try to break this into small pieces and take it bit by bit.  Sometimes the diagnosis process is long (mine took 2 years) and finding the correct drug therapy can take time, too (mine took 1 year and we are still tweeking it out.)
When you get your results, have a pen and paper handy to write down what he says and ask the doctor for a copy of your labs.  You might take someone with you because it is easy to miss something by being caught up in the moment and anxious.
Please let us know what you learn.  You may have questions with which we can assist you.  Until then, we are here for support and to try to answer any questions you have.  Hang in there and good luck!

[TomzGirl]

I cannot tell you how much I appreciate your advice and your support.  Trust me, I am going to need it!!!!  I am so new to this and everything I have read says this could take years to figure out and I want to just take a magic pill and fix it all!  But, we live on the planet earth and we both know this is not going to happen.  Funny thing, I am 37; a marathon runner and then all of a sudden all heck broke loose.  From 7/2 til now has just been drama.....my positive screening came back on 7/2 and a seen my rheumatlogist on 7/16; more tests on 7/17.  Just have not had time to catch my breath.

Thanks for listening and responding.  It means alot.  I will keep you posted, please keep me in the loop on how your medicines are treating you.  I do care and I am here too.

[txsilver]

It sounds like your expectations are grounded which will serve you well.  Honestly, I still wish for a magic pill.  The meds help but they all come with side effects.  I can say that when you even get close to the right combo, the rewards are worth the side effects and the risks.
The initial flurry of appointments and tests can be midboggling.  If you can, keep a journal or notes in a daytimer as that will help you keep track of where you have been and where you are going.
There are several athletic types in this forum who have been struck with various forms of arthritis and/or other autoimmune diseases.  I was very active, no athlete, but very active until I was struck with RA & AS plus a few other fun things.  It changed my whole perspective on mobility.  I am coming off of almost 3 years of being borderline house bound from fatigue and pain.  I am getting active again and my get intouch with my athletic side again in the very near future.  I guess the point I am trying to make is it can be rough and seem to go on forever, but there is hope and the possibility of getting better even if we can't get well.
I am glad you are here and look forward to sharing this journey with you and all the other fabulous people you will meet in the forum.  

Sandi

[TomzGirl]

Thanks Sandi....I am already looking forward to hearing from you.  It definitely helps with the waiting......:(

Talk to you soon!

Kristina