I was tested for RA, more than once, and my RF and ANA have always been negative. I did have one positive test for Lupus but they then determined I didn't have it. The rheumy I saw last spring/summer said I do have Lupus and Sjogrens but no RA. But, she told me that before she did further testing. When I did my follow up visit with her after my blood work, she wouldn't give me the results of the testing. She did say my ANA was elevated. That was the 1st time ever that my ANA was elevated. I am waiting to hear if I have been accepted as a patient with another rheumatology group to not only get a second opinion but maybe treatment as well.

Not only do my joints swell, my tendons do and I get tenosynovitis quite often in my wrist. My fingers can swell a lot (sausage digits), sometimes to the point where it feels like they will just burst open, and if I had a ring on they'd have to cut it off but I swell up too much and quickly too. I usually get a little warning before it happens as around the joint will feel sore and be red. Then I know that within the next 24 hours it will be swollen, painful, and difficult to move that joint. For me, there are only certain joints that it happens to. Like my right hand it happens on the pointer finger and middle finger and the wrist. My left hand gets it in my thumb, middle finger, and wrist. My left elbow and shoulder get it but not my right. My right knee gets it but not my left.

Since the one dr. said I have Lupus and Sjogren's I have to go with it until proven otherwise, just in case. When I was in the hospital I explained what the dr. had said. I have some blood work supporting it but until I see the rest of the results...

Starting with your PCP is a good idea. They can run some tests to get things going and refer you to a rheumy. Let me know how it goes.