Do you need clarification on whether the blood test for arthritis is ideal for you? Please read this section to understand why you should take the RF test and how to prepare for it.
Why Do I Need RA Testing?
The RF test is not specific only for rheumatoid arthritis. It can also help diagnose other conditions, such as:
- Sjogren Syndrome
- Lupus
- Chronic infections like hepatitis C and lymphoma
- Autoimmune diseases
This is also because of the following symptoms in both men and women:
- Extreme pain in the joints
- Tiredness or fatigue
- Mild fevers that come and go
- Tenderness or swelling of the joints
- Loss of appetite
- Dry eyes or mouth
- Lumps in the body
It is important to note that not everyone with RA will have a positive rheumatoid factor test, and some people without RA may have a positive test. For this reason, the RF test is not used alone to diagnose RA but in combination with other tests and clinical information.
How To Prepare For RA Factor Blood Test?
There is no special preparation required for the RF test. It is a simple blood test that requires drawing a blood sample from the vein in your arm. Before the test, be wary of the following factors:
- Do not fast unless prescribed by your healthcare professional.
- Drink adequate water before arriving at the diagnostic center
- Avoid consuming alcohol or smoking.
- If you have medications, consult your healthcare provider to see if you can take those before checking your Rheumatoid Factor (RF) levels.
What Happens During Rheumatoid Factor Blood Testing?
Are you visiting your nearest diagnostic center to get an RF test? If yes, your healthcare professional will take the following steps to draw the blood sample:
- Your healthcare provider will wrap a thin pipe around your arm and cleanse the target area with rubbing alcohol.
- The expert will check for the vein in your arm and ask you to clench your fists tightly.
- Your healthcare provider will draw a blood sample from your vein using a syringe and collect it in a vial/test tube, removing the injection from your skin.
- They will seal the target area with a bandage to avoid bleeding and send your blood sample to the laboratory for testing.
