New to Group - May have RA

[Guest guest]

Hi All,

I am new to this group and I hope to get some help. I will find out on the

27th of Jan why my hands are swollen and hurt so bad. Also have pain in

elbows, knees, feet, toes. Doctor suspects RA. It has gone on for about 12

years and never really gotten a diagnosis from my Primary Care Doctor. Went

to a Rheumy with the blood work from PCD that told me I have nothing wrong

with me and Rheumy says well of course you do have something wrong. I can

see it in your hands and your blood work shows positive for ANA-TITER. Does

anybody know about this test and what it may mean. I have no strength in my

hands (and wrists). Hurt and ache all of the time. Even when I am sitting

still doing nothing they hurt just because they exist. Can hardly open

doors, cook for myself because I can not lift the pans and don't want to

burn myself.

When I was younger (about 17) and pretty much through out the years ahead

until I have been on a minimal dose of anti-biotics like doxycycline,

minocycline, tetracycline for Skin disorders. Does anybody know if being on

this type of anti-biotic therapy would produce a false negative on RA type

blood work. I am so angry with my Primary Care Doctor for 12 years of

telling me there is nothing wrong with my hands. I need to change PCP

doctors also.

Thank You

Terri