What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing joint pain, stiffness, or swelling that won't go away, especially if it's happening in both hands or both knees at the same time. It helps check whether your immune system might be attacking your own joint tissue, which is a hallmark of conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. Many people order this test after weeks of unexplained joint discomfort that affects daily activities like gripping objects or walking.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your account with the normal range clearly explained next to your value, so you can see exactly where you stand. If your result is elevated, next steps typically include tracking your symptoms, reducing inflammatory foods, and considering a retest in a few months to watch the trend, or seeking medical care sooner if joint pain becomes severe or your joints start swelling significantly. You can download a standard lab report straight from your account at any time. The trends feature also lets you track this marker over time if you test again in the future.

Who should consider this test?

This test is a good fit for anyone with ongoing joint pain, morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes, or unexplained joint swelling. It's also useful if joint symptoms run in your family, since autoimmune joint conditions can have a genetic link. People already managing an autoimmune condition may also use it to keep an eye on markers over time.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common symptoms include stiff, swollen, or tender joints, especially in the hands, wrists, or knees, that tend to be worse in the morning. Some people also notice fatigue, low-grade fevers, or small firm lumps under the skin near joints. If these symptoms have lasted more than a few weeks, this test can help clarify what's going on.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days of your lab visit. You'll get a notification once they're posted to your account, where you can view the value alongside its reference range and a plain-language explanation. No need to call or wait on hold — everything is available online as soon as it's ready.

What is rheumatoid factor and why does it matter?

Rheumatoid factor is an antibody your immune system sometimes makes that mistakenly targets your own body tissue instead of germs. When levels are high, it can be a sign of rheumatoid arthritis or another autoimmune condition, though some healthy people can have slightly elevated levels too. It matters because catching it early can help you make lifestyle adjustments and get ahead of joint damage.

What does high rheumatoid factor mean?

A high result suggests your immune system may be producing extra antibodies that target joint tissue, which is often linked to rheumatoid arthritis or other autoimmune conditions. It doesn't automatically mean you have a disease — some people test positive without ever developing symptoms, and some infections can temporarily raise the number too. Combining this result with your symptoms and other tests gives the clearest picture.

What causes high rheumatoid factor?

Elevated rheumatoid factor is most commonly linked to autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or Sjögren's syndrome, but it can also rise temporarily due to chronic infections, liver disease, or even normal aging in some people. Smoking has also been associated with higher levels in some studies. Because there are multiple possible causes, your symptoms and other lab results help narrow things down.

How often should I retest?

If your result is normal but you still have symptoms, retesting every few months can help track any changes. If your level is elevated, many people retest every 3 to 6 months, or sooner if new symptoms develop, to see if the trend is rising, falling, or holding steady.

What should I do if my results are abnormal?

Start by tracking your symptoms — note which joints are affected, how long stiffness lasts, and whether it's getting better or worse. Simple anti-inflammatory habits like regular light exercise, adequate sleep, and reducing processed foods can help manage mild symptoms. If joint pain is severe, spreading, or accompanied by significant swelling or fever, seek medical care promptly.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Rheumatoid Factor Test - Joint Pain & Arthritis Check

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

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