Question 1

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Accepted Answer

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation, pain, and joint damage primarily in the hands, feet, and wrists. It is caused by the immune system mistakenly attacking the synovial membrane lining the joints, triggered by genetic factors like HLA-DRB1 alleles and the production of specific antibodies including rheumatoid factor and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies. The Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnostic Panel 1 is the most important test for diagnosis because it detects both CCP antibodies and Rheumatoid Factor, which are present in 60-80% of RA patients.

Question 2

What causes rheumatoid arthritis?

Accepted Answer

Rheumatoid arthritis is caused by the immune system mistakenly attacking the synovial membrane that lines your joints, leading to chronic inflammation and joint damage. The exact trigger is unknown, but genetic factors like HLA-DRB1 alleles combined with environmental factors such as smoking, infections, and hormonal changes activate immune cells to produce autoantibodies including rheumatoid factor and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies. These antibodies attack healthy joint tissue, causing the painful swelling, stiffness, and eventual bone erosion characteristic of RA.

Question 3

What is the best test for rheumatoid arthritis?

Accepted Answer

The Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnostic Panel 1 is the most important test for rheumatoid arthritis because it detects both Anti-CCP antibodies and Rheumatoid Factor in a single comprehensive panel. Anti-CCP antibodies are highly specific for RA and can appear years before symptoms develop, found in 60-80% of patients, while Rheumatoid Factor is present in approximately 80% of those with RA and helps indicate disease severity. Additional tests like C-Reactive Protein (CRP) and Sedimentation Rate are essential for monitoring inflammation levels and disease activity once diagnosed. For genetic risk assessment, the HLA DRB1,DQB1 Low Resolution test identifies specific gene variants associated with increased RA susceptibility.

Question 4

When should I get tested for rheumatoid arthritis?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience persistent joint pain, swelling, or stiffness lasting more than six weeks, especially if it affects multiple joints symmetrically on both sides of your body. Morning stiffness that lasts for 30 minutes or longer, unexplained fatigue, low-grade fever, or if you have a family history of rheumatoid arthritis are all strong indicators for testing. Early detection is crucial because RA can cause irreversible joint damage within the first two years, and starting treatment early significantly improves long-term outcomes and quality of life.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis?

Accepted Answer

Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms include tender, warm, and swollen joints that typically affect the small joints in your hands, wrists, and feet in a symmetrical pattern on both sides of the body. You might experience morning stiffness lasting 30 minutes or more, persistent fatigue, low-grade fever, and loss of appetite. As the disease progresses, you may notice joint deformity, decreased range of motion, and firm bumps of tissue under the skin on your arms called rheumatoid nodules. Symptoms often come and go in episodes called flares, alternating with periods of relative remission when swelling and pain fade or disappear.

Question 6

Who is at risk for rheumatoid arthritis?

Accepted Answer

Women are two to three times more likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis than men, with onset typically occurring between ages 40 and 60, though it can start at any age. Having a family history of RA significantly increases your risk, especially if you carry specific HLA-DRB1 gene variants. Smoking is the strongest environmental risk factor and can trigger disease development in genetically susceptible individuals. Other risk factors include obesity, exposure to certain infections, hormonal changes, and occupational exposures to silica dust or asbestos.

Question 7

What happens if rheumatoid arthritis is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated rheumatoid arthritis leads to progressive joint damage, including cartilage destruction and bone erosion that causes permanent deformities and disability. The chronic inflammation can spread beyond joints to affect your eyes, lungs, heart, blood vessels, and skin, increasing your risk of cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and lung scarring. You may develop carpal tunnel syndrome, joint instability, and eventually lose the ability to perform daily activities like dressing, cooking, or working. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical because most irreversible joint damage occurs within the first two years of disease onset.

Question 8

Can rheumatoid arthritis be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, blood tests are essential for diagnosing rheumatoid arthritis by detecting specific antibodies and inflammatory markers characteristic of the disease. The Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnostic Panel 1 measures Anti-CCP antibodies and Rheumatoid Factor, which are present in the majority of RA patients and help distinguish RA from other types of arthritis. Inflammatory markers like C-Reactive Protein and Sedimentation Rate indicate active inflammation and disease severity. While blood tests are crucial diagnostic tools, your doctor will combine these results with your symptoms, physical examination findings, and imaging studies like X-rays or ultrasounds for a comprehensive diagnosis.

Question 9

How is rheumatoid arthritis treated?

Accepted Answer

Rheumatoid arthritis is treated with disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) like methotrexate that slow disease progression and prevent joint damage. Biologic agents targeting specific parts of the immune system, such as TNF inhibitors or IL-6 blockers, are used for moderate to severe RA or when DMARDs alone are insufficient. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids help manage pain and reduce inflammation during flares. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and regular exercise help maintain joint flexibility and muscle strength, while severe joint damage may require surgical intervention like joint replacement or tendon repair.

Question 10

How can I prevent rheumatoid arthritis?

Accepted Answer

While you cannot completely prevent rheumatoid arthritis if you have genetic risk factors, you can reduce your risk by avoiding smoking and quitting if you currently smoke. Maintaining a healthy weight reduces stress on your joints and decreases inflammation throughout your body. Eating an anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids from fish, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may help lower your risk. If you have a family history of RA, regular check-ups and early testing for autoantibodies can lead to earlier intervention if the disease develops, potentially preventing severe joint damage.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with rheumatoid arthritis?

Accepted Answer

Fish oil supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce joint pain and morning stiffness when taken at doses of 2-3 grams daily. Turmeric and its active compound curcumin can reduce inflammation when taken as a supplement, though it should be used alongside conventional treatment, not as a replacement. Gentle exercises like swimming, water aerobics, and tai chi improve joint flexibility and strengthen muscles without putting excessive stress on inflamed joints. Heat therapy with warm baths or heating pads can ease stiffness, while cold packs reduce acute swelling during flares, but always consult your rheumatologist before adding supplements to ensure they do not interfere with your medications.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Blood Test

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

What causes rheumatoid arthritis?

What is the best test for rheumatoid arthritis?

When should I get tested for rheumatoid arthritis?

References

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