My daughter who is 46 years old with a history of childhood dermatomyositis has the following symptoms which have persisted for about 2 months: extreme fatigue, swelling in hands, legs, knees, pain in fingers, right forearm, shortness of breath, elevated blood pressure, chest discomfort and generally feeling ill. All blood work done by internal medicine doctor came back negative except the most recent blood work which she referred to as ANA?? and it was positive as an indicator for rheumatoid arthritis. She has been referred to a rheumatologist but cannot get an appointment until Sept. 28, 2016. She is taking 2 Aleve twice daily and Lasix which brings minimal relief from the fatigue, swelling and pain. The websites I have checked indicate that a diagnosis cannot be confirmed by blood work alone and she must see a specialist for a complete examination before confirming this is rheumatoid. Is this correct or are her symptoms and blood work enough to conclude she has rheumatoid arthritis? Also, what can she do to get relief enough to be able to work at her office job until her 9/28 appointment? Thank you. A very worried mother!!