Elevated CRP and Rheumatoid factor what might this mean?

[ScoobyMootoo]

Referred to see a Rheumatologist by GP due to recent blood results. Don't know CRP figures but told they're elevated, RF of 15. Debating using my medical insurance but reluctant to pay excess unless essential. GP didn't give me any explanation of what this means. Please stop me googling and tell me if this is/isn't a problem.

Thank you!

Do you have joint swelling? If so do need to be seen urgently. RF of 15 is not significant but would be concerned if joints are swollen.

Pain in some joints and aches in the morning, no swelling. I'm mid 30's so young to be so achy. I do have osteo arthritis in my spine so I blame that. I have very dry eyes which is why I saw GP but two other blood tests (I don't know what they were called) came back fine so she doesn't think Sjogrens.

Do you know what your ESR is?

No, ohwow, I don't recall having a test for that.

You can have a positive rf with sjogrens. Probably worth seeing a rheumatologist but no huge rush if your joints aren’t swollen. Are your joints stiff?

ESR is an inflammatory response and is high in people with arthritis.

Yes stiff joints, elbows in particular and obvious swelling inside one eyelid which I've had for about 7 months.

You need to see a rheumatologist,be guided by your GP about urgency.Not unreasonable to use your insurance that’s what it’s there for.