(no recent accidents or proir history of back pain) along with feeling tired and lack of energy and my eyes are very itchy and dry, gritty almost. I went to my GP and he sent me for blood tests, which have come back indicating rheumatoid factor. Please could you tell me about what this is. I am 24 years old, 5'1 and about 7st 10. Please feel free to ask more questions. Thankyou.
Q: Hi there, for the last three weeks I have had alot of pain in my lower back region
Answers (1)
6/24/09 11:52pm
Well, first of all, we are not doctors, just people that have RA. Itchy gritty eyes sounds more like Sjogrens Syndrome, which is common along with RA. I have both. Lower back pain though is not a REAL common symptom. Usually you will have pain and swelling in both hands or both feet to start with, but RA is a very hard thing to dx. Blood tests alone do not dx RA, you need symptoms that last over 3 months, blood work and a full work up by a rheumatologist. Please ask your GP for a referral to a Rheumatologist, that is the only way you will know for sure if you have RA. Good luck.
Brad
Important:
We hope you find this general health information helpful. Please note however, that this Q&A is meant to support not replace the professional medical advice you receive from your doctor. No information in the Answers above is intended to diagnose or treat any condition. The views expressed in the Answers above belong to the individuals who posted them and do not necessarily reflect the views of Remedy Health Media. Remedy Health Media does not review or edit content posted by our community members, but reserves the right to remove any material it deems inappropriate.
By chocolate16— Last Modified: 12/24/10, First Published: 06/23/09
Featuring Content From:
By using this service, you accept our Terms of Use. Please read them. The consumer health information on is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical conditions. You should promptly seek professional medical care if you have any concern about your health, and you should always consult your physician before starting a fitness regimen. Copyright © 2012 Remedy Health Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
