Joint pain and stiffness, constant fatigue, swelling - these symptoms can be the first signs of rheumatic diseases. They not only cause discomfort, but can also lead to serious mobility disorders and damage to internal organs. To prevent complications, it is important to consult a specialist - a rheumatologist in a timely manner.
A rheumatologist specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the connective tissue, joints and autoimmune pathologies. His competence covers a wide range of diseases - from arthritis and osteoarthritis to systemic lupus erythematosus and gout.
In this article, we will tell you in detail who a rheumatologist is, what diseases he treats, when you should seek advice, and what diagnostic and treatment methods are used to combat rheumatic diseases.
Who is a rheumatologist?
Rheumatologist – this is a doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases of the connective tissue, joints, and systemic autoimmune pathologies. Rheumatic diseases include not only arthritis and arthrosis, but also complex autoimmune processes in which inflammation in the joints occurs without the participation of infectious agents. Such a process is called aseptic inflammation.
The main task of a rheumatologist – establish an accurate diagnosis and select effective treatment that will help slow the progression of the disease and alleviate symptoms. The doctor also deals with the prevention of rheumatic pathologies and their complications, which allows patients to maintain mobility and well-being.
A rheumatologist: what does he treat?
The competence of this specialist includes a wide range of diseases associated with damage to the joints, connective tissue and autoimmune processes.
The most common rheumatic diseases:
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Rheumatoid arthritis – chronic autoimmune inflammatory disease of the joints, leading to their deformation and loss of functionality.
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Osteoarthritis – degenerative disease of the joints, accompanied by the destruction of cartilage tissue.
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Gout – a disease associated with impaired uric acid metabolism and the deposition of its crystals in the joints.
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Lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus) – an autoimmune disease that affects the joints, skin, kidneys, heart and other organs.
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Ankylosing spondylitis (Bechterew's disease) – chronic inflammatory disease of the spine and joints.
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Reactive arthritis – inflammation of the joints that occurs after infections.
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Systemic scleroderma - a pathology that causes thickening of the skin and damage to internal organs.
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Rheumatic chorea - a neurological complication after a streptococcal infection, which is manifested by involuntary movements and coordination disorders.
When is a rheumatologist's consultation necessary?
It is important to consult a doctor at the first signs of rheumatic diseases. In connective tissue diseases, symptoms may include:
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Pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints that last more than a few weeks.
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Joint deformity, creaking when moving.
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Chronic fatigue, general weakness.
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Elevated body temperature for no apparent reason.
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Skin rashes, brittle nails and hair.
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Muscle weakness, numbness in the extremities.
In particular, if lupus is suspected, symptoms may include fever, a butterfly-shaped rash on the face, joint pain, inflammation kidney and cardiovascular system disorders.
Even minor discomfort in the joints should not be ignored, as many rheumatic diseases can progress rapidly without proper treatment.
Diagnostic and treatment methods for rheumatic diseases
To determine an accurate diagnosis, the doctor uses the following methods:
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Blood tests for inflammatory markers, autoimmune antibodies.
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X-rays to assess the condition of the joints.
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Ultrasound of the joints to detect fluid, swelling and structural changes.
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CT for a detailed examination of bone and cartilage tissue.
Treatment of rheumatic diseases depends on their type and stage. The main methods include:
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Anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce pain and swelling.
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Hormonal agents to control inflammatory processes.
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Immunosuppressants to treat autoimmune pathologies.
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Physiotherapy and exercise therapy to maintain joint mobility.
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Diet therapy - dietary correction to reduce inflammation.
In severe autoimmune diseases such as lupus, treatment may include immunosuppressive therapy, plasmapheresis, and symptomatic treatment of affected organs.
Tips for preventing rheumatic diseases
Although many rheumatic diseases are genetic in nature, the risk of developing them can be reduced by following a healthy lifestyle:
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Regularly engage in physical activity to maintain joint mobility.
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Watch your diet – avoid foods that cause inflammation.
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Control your weight to reduce the load on your joints.
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Avoid hypothermia and excessive physical exertion.
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See your doctor immediately if you experience symptoms - early diagnosis helps to effectively control the disease.
If you are concerned about joint pain, stiffness, or other symptoms of rheumatic diseases, consult a specialist. Only a doctor can make an accurate diagnosis and prescribe appropriate treatment.
A rheumatologist diagnoses and treats complex diseases that can seriously affect your quality of life. The earlier treatment is started, the higher the chances of avoiding complications. If you experience alarming symptoms, do not postpone a visit to a specialist. Make an appointment with a rheumatologist at «Oxford Medical» today.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What symptoms may indicate the need to see a rheumatologist?
Indications for consultation are pain, stiffness, swelling or deformation of the joints, chronic fatigue, unexplained fever, rashes, brittle nails, numbness of the extremities. It is also important not to ignore muscle weakness and general malaise that last more than 2-3 weeks.
Is there a difference between osteoarthritis and arthritis, and who treats them?
Yes, arthritis is inflammation of the joints, often autoimmune in nature, and osteoarthritis is a degenerative lesion of cartilage tissue. Both pathologies are accompanied by pain and limited mobility. These diseases are treated by a rheumatologist.
How does a rheumatologist treat connective tissue diseases?
Treatment includes immunosuppressants, anti-inflammatory drugs, hormone therapy, physiotherapy and lifestyle changes. Therapy is selected individually depending on the course of the disease and the affected organs. The main goal is to stop the progression of the disease and reduce symptoms.
Who treats arthritis?
Mostly a rheumatologist, especially if it is rheumatoid, psoriatic or reactive arthritis. In some cases, an orthopedist, therapist, physiotherapist are involved in the treatment.
Which doctor treats osteoarthritis?
In the initial stages of the disease - a rheumatologist. In complicated cases, the help of an orthopedist or surgeon may be required. Treatment involves drug therapy, physiotherapy, exercise therapy, and sometimes - surgical intervention in case of severe joint deformity.
Acute rheumatic fever: symptoms?
Symptoms of the disease usually include joint pain, fever, weakness, inflammation of the heart muscle, skin rashes, subcutaneous nodules, rheumatic chorea. It often occurs as a complication after streptococcal angina in children or adolescents.
