Can Enbrel relieve RA symptoms, but still be negative for RA factor?
My Rheumatoid factor is negative, all other labs are borderline, but still on the normal side. Physical symptoms for RA have been present for 3 years. I feel better since taking Enbrel and Methotrexate. Is it possible that the symtoms could be related to another condition and not be RA, such as hormonal imbalances? Some women experience same type of symptoms with menopause. I am reaching, I know, but just curious. I may still be in the denial phase of accepting diagnosis.
Having RA, but testing negative for RA factor is quite common - I've had this disease for over 40 years and am still negative. I don't know much about menopause or whether these symptoms can happen during that time. However, HealthCentral's menopause site may have more information on that (click here for more). Asking questions and challenging diagnoses is generally a good idea - it's your body, you're the one in charge of this process and it's important that you and your doctor work as a team. Information is power and the more you know, the better you'll be able to manage life with a chronic disease.
Unfortunately, the fact that you are doing better while on medication designed to suppress RA seems to indicate that you have something along those lines to suppress. It's common to be in denial when diagnosed with a chronic illness and you might find it helpful to see a counselor or therapist to help you through the early stages of adjusting to the disease. Talking to other people in the same situation, such as on this site, can also help you know more and by sharing experiences, you may find it easier to accept where you're at.
Lastly, although having RA does impact your life, the new medications available, such as Enbrel, can minimize its impact to a degree unheard of 10 years ago. Yes, you have to jump through some extra troops in terms of managing your fatigue and pain levels, but as you adjust, they become second nature and you will increasingly be able to focus on what's important in your life.
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Sorry - the link to the HealthCentral Menopause site is here.
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I am going through Meno and I asked my doctor the same thing. He said the swelling in my hands with pain is not meno. It could be both yes. Swelling in your hands from meno is not inflammation like arhritis. I am on Pred and starting Enbrel soon.
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