How A Rheumatologist Can Help You
Rheumatologists are experts that deal with musculoskeletal conditions and injuries. They can help you to get rid of joint pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, osteoporosis, and tendonitis, to name a few diseases.
If you are experiencing issues with your joints, a rheumatologist is the right person to assist you. Here's a look at some of the reasons why you should see a rheumatologist and what to expect.
Muscle and Joint Pain
Muscle and joint pain is something that almost everyone experiences. However, if there is swelling, a skin rash, and consistent pain, you may need to see a rheumatologist. If your pain lasts for several days or weeks, you need to tell your family doctor about it. Your doctor will then look at how much pain you are experiencing, if it is severe enough, they will refer you to a rheumatologist.
Avoid Permanent Damage
Rheumatoid diseases such as arthritis can cause permanent damage to your joints as well as your organs if you are not careful. By visiting a rheumatologist and getting an early diagnosis as well as treatment for the problem you can avoid this altogether.
Your rheumatologist will develop a treatment plan that is specially designed for your issues. They will do this by looking at your medical history.
What Happens When You Visit a Rheumatologist?
During your first visit, your rheumatologist will want to know as much about you as they can. Your medical history and your family's medical history will be looked into. Your posture and your flexibility will also be examined by your rheumatologist. Blood work and laboratory tests will be done. You may be asked to do X-rays or even an MRI scan so that your rheumatologist can start developing a personalized treatment plan for you.
You will also be told how to help manage your rheumatoid condition at home. This can be very beneficial as it will help to make self-management easier so that you can help your doctor with managing your symptoms effectively. Consistently taking care of yourself in the right way can help prevent outbreaks of your condition. This means fewer emergency trips to your doctor or even the hospital emergency room in some cases.
If you have a rheumatoid disease then visiting a rheumatologist is something that you will need to do at some point. A rheumatologist is the best person to assist you with managing your condition and making your life easier.
For more information, contact a local clinic like Sarasota Arthritis Center.