Just how to Know When to Visit a Rheumatologist

Most folks think that a rheumatologist only treats rheumatoid arthritis. Actually, Eugene, OR rheumatologists treat more than 200 kinds of diseases including autoimmune diseases like lupus, arthritis, and osteoporosis. Because various kinds of diseases connected with rheumatology are hard to spot, especially in early stages, a rheumatologist may work as well as other kinds of doctors to be able to provide better diagnosis and treatment for patients.

Search for These Signs and Symptoms

Persistent pain and swelling of the joints lasting more than a couple of weeks is probably the most obvious sign that the visit to the doctor is needed. Joints that become swollen and red in color, or joints that feel warm may be indicative of inflammation in the tissue. Lack of motion or decreased ability to move joints, reduced range of flexibility, and tenderness or pain that gets worse or maybe more intense with increased activity or movement are often an indication that it's time to schedule an appointment with a rheumatologist.

A visit to one's personal physician is a good first step in the right direction. Discuss any symptoms, pains, or problem areas which may indicate the possibility of any rheumatoid-related conditions. Ask your doctor to order a blood test that will rule out any kind of rheumatoid arthritis. The physician will help for making a determination to visit a rheumatologist or not. Make sure you contact medical insurance provider and get yourself a referral for specialists in the surrounding area.

Things to Expect on the First Visit

The rheumatologist will probably want to gather as much information as you are able to and initiate a detailed patient history. Prepare by making a listing of the kinds of pains, aches, or changes noticed. The physician would want to know once the symptoms began, the length of time they lasted, and what effect they have on daily life, work, or other activities. The physician will even need to know about family history, specifically if any family unit members have had rheumatoid arthritis or any similar condition. The more the doctor knows about the patient, the higher they are able to diagnose and provide proper treatment.

Once a suitable diagnosis is made, the rheumatologist can better explain the type of a specific condition and so what can be likely of future treatments. Most treatment programs will probably include some sort of treatment program designed to help with pain management, increasing range of flexibility, and reducing any inflammation. Just like any medical treatment, early diagnosis is vital to be able to help patients achieve perfect outcome https://www.degreefinders.com/education-articles/careers/how-to-become-a-rheumatologist/.