Newbie: Undiagnosed, but worried about RA

[Guest guest]

Hi everyone,

I am new to the group. I have not been diagnosed with RA, but I have

convinced myself that I have it. I will be seeing a Rheumatologist the

end of April. I am very worried!

Interesting story as to why I'm seeing the Rheumatologist. I went to a

new gynocologist for my yearly exam (I just moved to the area) and she

noticed that I have a history of a clotting disorder in my family. She

tested for the clotting disorder and that came back negative, but

she " accidentally " tested for some other things as well. The lab work

showed that I have speckled ANA. I also mentioned to my regular doctor

that I have been having pain, tightness, and tingling in my hands and

fingers as well as a history of scoliosis and neck and back pain. He

noticed that my fingers are also crooked, so he's sending me to the

Rheumatologist. I'm so worried that I have RA. Any suggestions on

what symptoms I can watch for? Any ideas on what I can expect when I

see the Rheumatologist?

THANKS!

Krissy