ANA Testing: Results positive (Twice)

I know this has been discussed, but I must ask as the answers are for my beloved wife, not me directly:
She has had high positive ANA tests from two separate family doctors. Referred to a rheumatologist and that person checked for the major AI diseases likely to cause high ANA. All tests ran came back negative. Her fingers are getting more twisted every year. She does not have arthritis (by the test results). She has been experiencing hair loss. She has mild COPD, treated with Brio, she also has very unstable thyroids and they are so small the ulltra-sound barely "sees" them. Takes a variable dose of thyroid meds to keep them at a more constant level. We are waiting to see another rheumatologist shortly. The doctors so far say she has nothing to worry about, however, they have not said why her fingers are getting twisted nor have they investigated further. I have printed out some things found on-line to help the doc/specialists think outside the box. Something is causing the reactions we are seeing, but what? That's the question. Any ideas or suggestions would be appreciated! Thanks!