HealingWell
Search Close Search
☰

Positive ANA but negative titer, does this mean I do NOT have lupus?

Support Forums
>
Lupus
✚ New Topic ✚ Reply
❬ ❬ Previous Thread |Next Thread ❭ ❭
Posted 5/16/2016 4:58 AM (GMT 0)
Hi,
I'm new here and have many symptoms of lupus. I'm trying to get in to see a rheumatologist. I've been having a lot of health problems for some time. I do have ulcerative colitis and a lot of other things going on. My GP did blood work and it came back with a positive ANA but negative titer. Does this completely rule out lupus?
Thanks
Posted 5/16/2016 12:07 PM (GMT 0)
No, I'm afraid that does NOT rule out Lupus.

You do need to see a rheumatologist - if you haven't chosen one yet here is what I recommend to find a Lupus knowledgeable Dr -

Check with the Lupus Org at www.lupus.org to find your local chapter of the organization. Then check in with the local chapter to see which local Drs are active on the advisory board -- these are generally the Drs most interested in and most experienced with Lupus in your area.

Meanwhile, you need to know that Lupus is diagnosed by having at least 4 of 11 symptoms, and blood work only counts as one symptom. Read the list at "Diagnosing Lupus" below.

Hope you feel better soonest,
Posted 5/17/2016 12:03 AM (GMT 0)
Thanks, after reading through that I do have at least 4 of the 11 symptoms and am scared. I do have ulcerative colitis though, would that cause a positive ANA??? I can't get in to see a rheumatologist for 3-4 months. :( (I will check the list you gave and check with my ins. too) I'm in pain and am SO severely fatigued it's hard to get ANYTHING done. I'm 38 and little things like just going to the grocery store completely wears me out. My quality of life is suffering and I feel bad for my family.
Posted 5/17/2016 2:56 AM (GMT 0)
Yes, there are a number of conditions that cause a positive ANA, not just Lupus, and a number of symptoms that overlap between various auto-immune diseases. It may be that you are experiencing new (to you) UC symptoms, or it could be something new. Only the Drs can really make that determination.

Can you visit with your UC Dr sooner and see if perhaps they can do something to help you in the meantime?
Posted 5/17/2016 4:05 AM (GMT 0)
First get that appointment for the RA doctor , even if it's 3 to 4 months out. Second, there are some things you can try, like B-12 for energy, vitamin D can help with pain, ginger can help with pain. These are only things to get you somewhat function until your doctor's appointment, they may help.
In 2008 it took me 2 months wait for a doctor then another half year, getting testing done with blood work, mri's for the RA before getting a dx...I got the ra dx in August 2009...So once you do get an appointment you'll then get more labs done. A good Rheumatoid doctor will be worth it...
now keep positive and try not to panic, the panic will only make you go into a flair and all before your appointment, I know this is hard it always hard to wait, but you will get a diagnosis...waiting is always the hard part and not knowing....
✚ New Topic ✚ Reply