I posted about this several days ago (and thanks to everyone who responded). I've been having symptoms that made my GP suspect lupus or RA. She ran bloodwork on me and my ANA was positive. So off to a rheumatologist I go.
So, from the people here who have been diagnosed with lupus/RA ... what kind of tests should they be doing? (Do I have to shave my legs?) Are there certain things I should be asking?
I also tested positive for anti-thyroglobulin antibodies. My GP is starting me on a small dose of Synthroid to see if that will help, even though the other thyroid values were all within normal range. I looked up this test because I'd never heard of it and lupus was listed as one of the potential causes for a positive. Of course, thyroid disease is listed as one of the potential causes for a positive ANA, so who really knows what's going on at this point.
Anyway, I will do some obsessive Googling on lupus, RA, etc. before seeing the rheumatologist, so I'm not really looking for information on that -- I just want to hear what others had to go through to get diagnosed. And I guess I want to know what a good rheumy should be doing, too -- Michele, I've been following your story (so glad you have this great new doctor, but I'm so sorry her outlook for you isn't that great), and I'm afraid of getting stuck with a crappy doctor who just lets something progress instead of treating it.
Thanks!
-------------------- jen
"It's one of the most serious things that can possibly happen to one in a battle -- to get one's head cut off." -- LC
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lupus/RA -- what to expect/ask rheumatologist?
