Intro!

[Guest guest]

This hasn't shown up and I sent it around 8:15 PM. Messages I sent to other

groups have shown up so am trying again. If it's a duplicate...please

accept my sincerest apologies.

Hi Everyone,

I'm so glad to have found you all. I've been on the list for a few days but

haven't posted an intro so thought that I should do so.

I went to the Doc a week ago because I couldn't stand the swelling and pain

in my hands and fingers anymore. I did tell him that in 1983 I was told

that I had arthritis in my neck (via an x-ray; but no determination was made

or suggested be made as to type) and that I suspected that this might be a

problem with my hands.

Well, lab work was done. I, at first, was told that the RA Factor was

slightly elevated but wasn't given any numbers. When I called for the

results of the second lab test I questioned the RA Factor and was told it

was High. They said 14 and below was normal and mine was 84. My first

question, if someone can answer, is how high is that? Next, the second test

came back with inflammation showing a postive. Mine Number was 50. I'm

still waiting on the ANA test to come back which should be Monday and I was

told that this will tell " them " the extent and what is involved.

I'm a bit scared, one due to the expense of the meds. A friend's sister

said she paid $500.00 for 30 days of just one med. I have no insurance, I

work 50 hours a week and get about $7.50 per hour. I'm 51 and my husband

gets excellent $$ when he works but he's 63, currently in Brazil working,

and the end of his job is in sight. This is the first job he's had in years

and he's been on this on since November, 2001.

Anyway, I guess I'm still in limbo at this point as the last test still

hasn't come in. I'm taking, per the Doc, 3 Advil every 6 hours, for pain.

I have to be honest and say that most of the time it doesn't really help.

I also raise and show Pomeranians...which may come to a screeching hold

without the use of my hands. I also work for my vet, live on a small 60 acre

farm

in the northwest corner of Missouri.

Hugs to each and everyone of you!