Is it really RA?

[Guest guest]

Hi Everyone,

I don't do much here, but am glad that you are here when I need you. I was

wondering if

there is a more concrete way to know if a diagnosis is correct or not for RA.

My initial

blood work showed a positive RA/RF I can't remember what it's called. But after

each

yearly test, it has come back normal and the initial readings were barely

positive. My C-

reactive Protein levels are off the charts, which only indicates that there is

inflammation

somewhere in the body. The other tests like ana and others were slightly above

or below

normal which ever applies. I just want to find out if I truly have the right

diagnosis. I have

been on MTX for 2 years plus, and Enbrel for about a year with no change. My

wrists

ache, my fingers ache my knees ache, I have trouble grabbing and holding onto

things

like a very clumsy child.

I never have swelling in my hands, feet, ankles or anywhere for that matter. I

do have

Osteoarthritis in my neck and spine and other joints of my body. I just need

answers and

my rheummy is certain that I have RA or ankylosing spondylitis, but there is no

real proof

that I do. What should I do next? I had a 2nd opinion about a year ago from

another

rheumatologist who said I don't have RA, but wasn't sure what I had so he sent

me home

with a prescription for pain which I don't want. So, that was a negative

experience.

I'm so confused. What should I do next? Is there a way to take fluid from the

joint and test

it for RA or any other auto immune disorder?

Thanks for listening.

Have a great day.