What are Rheumatologists?

A rheumatologist is an internist who specialises in arthritis and other musculoskeletal illnesses, as well as systemic autoimmune diseases. These diseases can cause joint abnormalities as well as pain, edema (swelling), and stiffness.

When your immune system creates excessive inflammation in many places of your body, autoimmune disorders develop. In addition to joints, muscles, and bones, they can impact your skin, eyes, and internal organs. Rheumatologists assist in the diagnosis and treatment of various conditions. They also undertake studies to learn more about rheumatic disorders.

What diseases or medical conditions do Rheumatologists treat?

Rheumatologists are qualified to treat a variety of symptoms and some specialise on one or more subcategories. Paediatric rheumatologists are trained to treat children under the age of 18. Rheumatologists can treat over 100 different types of rheumatic ailments. Rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, back pain,scleroderma, reactive arthritis, myositis, tendonitis, fibromyalgia gout, osteoarthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and lupus are some of the common medical conditions treated by a rheumatologist. 

When should I make an appointment with a rheumatologist?

Some rheumatic disorders have the potential to cause joint injury. As a result, it's critical to see a rheumatologist as soon as possible. Many disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis, can be diagnosed and treated more quickly, preventing lasting joint damage. Muscle, bone, and joint pain affects almost everyone at some point in their lives. Additional evaluation may be required if the discomfort does not resolve as expected. The first evaluation is usually done by a primary care, urgent care, or emergency room clinician (physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant). Other health care providers, such as physical therapists, occupational therapists, chiropractors, orthopaedic surgeons, or other medical specialists, may refer you to a rheumatologist on occasion.

What is the educational qualification Rheumatologist possesses?

Rheumatologists must have completed a 5 ½ year MBBS followed by a 2- to 3-year M.D. (Medicine) programme. These doctors keep up with the latest procedures and research by retaking certification exams every ten years. Rheumatologists must also complete a specific number of hours of continuing education each year.

Common Lab Tests Ordered by Rheumatologists

Anti-cyclic citrullinated peptides (anti-CCP), antinuclear antibody (ANA), c-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), rheumatoid factor (RF) are some of the common lab tests suggested by a rheumatologist.

Rheumatologists - FAQs

1) Why would a rheumatologist recommend a patient urinalysis?

Background Urine testing (dipstick and culture) is utilised in the outpatient rheumatology environment as a screening tool for proteinuria or hematuria (connective tissue diseases) or to check people with urinary tract infection symptoms (UTI).

2) Does a rheumatologist treat fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is not an arthritic condition (joint disease). Some people may mistake fibromyalgia for a rheumatic ailment since it can cause chronic pain and exhaustion comparable to arthritis.

3) Is medicine the sole approach to help with rheumatic illness symptoms?

There are a variety of therapeutic choices for rheumatic illness symptoms.Along with medication lifestyle changes are recommended.

4) What is the difference between a rheumatologist and an orthopaedic surgeon?

A rheumatologist is a doctor who specialises in treating joint illnesses that can be managed with medication. Orthopaedic surgeons are experts in the surgical treatment of joints and fracture care.

5) Do rheumatic diseases affect all ages or only old age people?

Rheumatoid arthritis affects people of all ages, including children. It primarily affects persons in their 30s and 40s, with a larger prevalence among those over 50.