Health Issues Common In Women

Do You Need A Rheumatologist? What Your Body May Be Telling You

9 May 2022 by admin

Most people associate rheumatology with arthritis, so they dismiss the possibility of seeing a rheumatologist if they don't believe that they have arthritis. The truth is that rheumatologists actually treat a variety of things, including some autoimmune diseases, joint and tendon issues, and more. Here's a look at a few indications that you might need to call a local rheumatologist for an appointment.

Chronic Joint Pain

Some occasional aches and pains are normal, but if you've been dealing with chronic pain in any of your joints with no clear explanation, you should talk with a rheumatologist. This is especially true if this joint pain is accompanied by stiffness and increased pain in the mornings when you first get up. Even if anti-inflammatories help to ease it, that's still a cause for concern. Your primary care doctor might try to identify a source of the pain, but absent any apparent indications for what's causing your discomfort, it's best for you to work with a rheumatologist who can help you get to the bottom of it all.

Muscle Weakness Issues

Have you started to experience weakness in any of your muscles? Maybe you're having trouble reaching overhead or you feel your hands and arms start to go numb in certain positions. Any of these cases are indicative of muscle and nerve issues that should be evaluated by a rheumatologist. This is especially true if you're noticing that the muscle weakness and pain is progressing and getting worse.

Random Fever Of Unknown Origin

Have you been struggling with recurring fevers that are unexplainable? If you have no other signs of any infections, illnesses, or other problems that could be causing them, they'll often be declared fevers of unknown origin. They are also common indications of certain autoimmune diseases that can leave you in need of a rheumatologist's care. Lupus, vasculitis, and many more conditions can cause fevers like this, so seek care right away for a proper diagnosis.

Your Primary Care Can't Diagnose Your Symptoms

If you've been in and out of your primary care doctor's office seeking diagnosis with no luck, that may mean it's time to reach out to a rheumatologist. Remember that primary care doctors are general practitioners. They don't specialize in rheumatology or autoimmune conditions. You'll need to work with a specialist for that.

These are some of the most common indications that it's time for you to reach out to a rheumatologist for treatment. Don't let your symptoms go untreated any longer than necessary. Ask your doctor for a referral today. 

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