RF factor result

[Nomoney2018]

Hi I am 48. Today was advised I have RF of 380.1 I have had pain in fingers. GP NOW referring me to rheumatology. I also have coronary heart disease after 2 heart attacks and 7 stents. Just wondered what I can expect when I go to see specialist and will this effect my heart condition? X

[sylvi]

Well for a start they will take your history and look at the blood tests that the dr. will supply. Ask your dr. for the results so you can show thm as well.xxxx

[Nomoney2018 in reply to sylvi]

Thank you Sylv. Hopefully I will not be waiting too long for appointment to see rheumatology. X

[helixhelix]

As well as taking history, weighing & measuring you, checking blood pressure, they may do more blood tests depending on which ones GP has done, examine your joints (be prepared with clothes you can take off easily) and send you for X-rays. Depending on all that you may or may not get a diagnosis on the day.

The RF result suggests RA, but this particular test is not 100% as some people are positive without having RA. However with coronary heart disease already they should be very thorough and careful with you. Having rheumatoid arthritis heightens the risk for getting heart problems, so if you do have RA they will want to get it under control as soon as possible so as not to put further stress on your heart. Make sure you have your drug list with you as many of the heart drugs mean the doctors will have to select drugs for the RA with care.

[Nomoney2018 in reply to helixhelix]

Thank you so much for your reply. My dad suffered from chronic RA for 48 years I saw what it did to him and I guess it scared me a bit. I know that the treatment is better now than it was for him. Hope I get appointment soon.

Thanks again.

[Hidden]

On the positive side you do know you have a heart issue, are being treated for this, and Rheum Drs will address this carefully. Many people you pass in the street have no idea they have a heart problem so are at great risk unknowingly. I hope all goes smoothly for you and that the wait isn't too long.

[Nomoney2018]

So true. This is what I tell my family all the time. I know I have heart issues and I'm on medication for it. I know how quickly and suddenly a heart attack can happen those around me have no idea what is going on in there bodies.

Just need to know the effect possible RA will also have on my heart.