When a particular autoimmune condition is suspected within our body, healthcare professionals often recommend the Antinuclear Antibody (ANA) test.
ANA stands for Antinuclear Antibody, and it involves our immune system mistakenly targeting our own body.
Typically, antibodies are naturally produced by our body to defend against external threats such as bacteria and viruses.
However, in the case of autoimmune diseases, these antibodies turn against our own body, initiating a process of self-destruction.
The ANA test is specifically designed to detect these antibodies that attack the nucleus of our body’s cells, leading to potential harm and damage.
The ANA blood test is mainly used to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and scleroderma.
ANA Test Positive Symptoms
ANA is an autoimmune disease and its symptoms appear late. its symptoms are
1) Joint pain, swelling
2) Muscle and joint pain
3) Red spots on cheeks and nose
4) Weakness and fatigue
5) Sensitivity to light
6) Numbness of hands or feet
7) Hair fall
8) Abdominal pain
9) Swollen lymph nodes
10) Dryness of eyes and mouth
11) Blisters in the mouth
ANA Test Positive Means
The ANA test yields one of two outcomes: either a positive or negative result.
When the result is negative, it signifies the absence of an autoimmune disease.
However, a positive ANA test indicates the presence of an autoimmune disease.
Interestingly, in some cases, individuals may receive a positive ANA test result without exhibiting any noticeable symptoms.
This scenario underscores the importance of recognizing that an autoimmune disease may exist, even in the absence of immediate symptoms, potentially leading to health issues down the road.
Notably, around 20% of individuals who test positive for ANA are typically over the age of 65, have a history of tuberculosis (TB) disease, and are taking medications for conditions like high blood pressure and seizures.
In the event of a positive ANA test, healthcare professionals often recommend an ANA panel or ANA profile test.
This further examination aids in pinpointing the specific autoimmune disease that may be at play, allowing for more targeted and effective treatment.
ANA Test Positive Treatment
A positive ANA test result indicates the presence of an autoimmune disease, a condition for which there is no permanent cure.
Autoimmune diseases cannot be completely eradicated; however, their symptoms can be managed with appropriate medical interventions.
Typically, healthcare providers prescribe medications aimed at alleviating symptoms, which often include painkillers and immunosuppressants.
These treatments aim to provide relief and improve the patient’s quality of life by suppressing the overactive immune response responsible for the autoimmune condition.
Disease Caused by Positive ANA Test
1) Rheumatoid Arthritis
2) Lupus
3) Scleroderma
4) Sjogren’s Syndrome
5) Addison’s Disease
6) Autoimmune Hepatitis
ANA Test Price
The ANA test is done with blood and costs Rs 1,000. You can get this test done at any time and there is no need of fasting.
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