Another Newbie :o) | Arthritis Information

Hello everyone...I have been lurking for a couple of days and thought I should pop in and introduce myself. My name is Staci, Wife to Jon, Mom to Joshua and Julia. My RA adventure just began about a month ago when I was concerned about a lump between my ribs..turned out my sternum is VERY inflamed. From there it went. The Dr. told me I should have contacted her 6 months ago when I started have really bad weakness in my hands. How the heck was I supposed to know! Jeeze. Anywho...she ran blood work for RA which came back with levels elevated. More bloodwork for RH factor (I think that's what it's called) came back possitive and sed rate (again I think that' what it's called). Anyway...the results were that I definately have an inflamation problem. I will be seeing a Rheumatologist on Aug. 18th. What are the chances this ISN'T RA?? TIA....Staci

Welcome to the group Staci.

I suppose there's any number of things it could be. I'll hope for your sake it isn't RA; but to me...it sounds pretty much like a sure thing considering your blood work.

Don't panic. Your life is not over. With proper treatment you can manage very well. Study up and know more about it all so you'll know what to ask your docotor.

We have a great section that our members have compiled on the first page of the boards. If you haven't already done so it's a wonderful place to start your research. It's called "Useful Links" it's the first section on the main message boards.

Hang around. You'll find lots of experience here.

We're glad you found us.

Lovie

Hi Staci,

Welcome!

I guess there could be a chance it is not RA, but I agree with Lovey....sounds like the bloodwork will probably be offering up a quick dx in your case.

Please stay with us and let us know how the apt goes

good luck to you and again, I too am glad you're here!

Sorry to hear that you are in a bit of a dilemma... however, be assured that you have come to the right place for information, guidance, and strength. We all need help to get through our fight !!!! Feel free to vent, whine, complain, laugh, and cry. We have all been there and still do it. :o)

Welcome Staci!!

Hope to see ya posting more and getting to know ya!!

June

STACI...HEARD LOTS OF STORIES ABOUT RA DIAGNOSIS BUT YOUR IS THE FIRST HAVING STERNUM INFLAMMATION. I HAVE HAD THAT FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER JUST RECENTLY AND IT IS VERY PAINFUL. THANK GOD YOUR MD WAS ON TOP OF THINGS AND IS GETTING YOU TO A RHEUMY FAST! ALOT OF US SUFFERED NEEDLESSLY BEFORE BEING REFERRED TO A RHEUMY. DO YOU ACTUALLY HAVE A NODULE ON YOUR BREASTBONE? GLAD YOU FOUND US; THIS SITE HAS BEEN A GODSEND FOR ME!! KEEP US POSTED AFTER YOUR APPT. AND POST OFTEN. WE WANT TO GET TO KNOW YOU BETTER!! GOOD LUCK!!Welcome Staci!! Glad you're
hear and that you popped in.

I was just recently diagnosed too-actually about 4
months ago, but things are going better . Glad
you got an appointment with a rheumatologist
already. Sounds l ike with the blood work it's
probably RA, but your dr. will tell you for sure.

Blessings to you!

Tara L

Welcome to our group Staci!

You have come to the right place for support thru the diagnosis process. I wouldnt wish RA on you or anyone, but if it is youve also got a wealth of info and first hand experience in dealing with the disease. I am also relatively new to RA and I also have Fibro. I cant say enought about this site tho, it has helped me deal with a lot of the problems both conditions bring. Keep in touch with us and lets us know what the RD says.

Shawnie

Welcome Staci!

I agree from the blood results it does sound like RA but obviously your specialist will know for sure. I hope you find the answers soon! Keep posting!

Jenna x