In this article we will discuss what does a rheumatologist treat. Rheumatologists are trained to treat your joints, muscles, tendons, or bone diseases. In 2015, in the US, there were about 52 million people with arthritis. It is predicted that this number will increase to more than 70 million people in 2040. There are many forms of arthritis caused by inflammation, wear and tear, viruses or bacteria.
What is an inflammatory arthritis?
The joint disease is called arthritis. This is a disease of your joints that can cause swelling, pain, and stiffness. There are more than 100 types of arthritis. Usually, with age, arthritis can become worse. However, many young adults can have arthritis caused by autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or psoriatic arthritis.
What is osteoporosis?
Rheumatologists also treat osteoporosis. With age or certain treatments, your bones can become weak and brittle. Did you know taking long-term steroids or using an antacid for years can cause osteoporosis?
When bones are too brittle, even with a fall or bending causes a fracture of your hip, spine, or wrist.
What are autoimmune diseases?
What other diseases a rheumatologist treat? Other conditions treated by are autoimmune diseases. These are caused by your overactive immune system that starts fighting your own body. They can be hard to diagnose and, sometimes, life-threatening. It is essential to be evaluated early and adequately and get the help that you need. Lupus erythematosus, scleroderma, dermatomyositis, vasculitis are just a few examples. They require the expertise of a rheumatologist.
Are all autoimmune diseases treated by rheumatologists?
No. Not all autoimmune diseases are treated by rheumatologists. For instance, Crohns disease or Ulcerative colitis will be seen by a gastroenterologist. Autoimmune thyroiditis will benefit from an endocrinologist.
You’ve got lots of options to help you feel better if you suffer from these diseases. Schedule an appointment with your doctor today, and start your journey toward a better life.
About the author
Diana Girnita, MD, PhD is an US board certified internal medicine and rheumatology. She completed a PhD in immunology, postdoctoral fellowship at Harvard University, immunology fellowship at University of Pittsburgh and rheumatology fellowship at University of Cincinnati. She is the founder & CEO of Rheumatologist OnCall, a telemedicine company that serves multiple states in the US. Dr. Girnita is a graduate of the Nutrition Science course from Stanford University and was recognized many times with “Top Doctor” award (2017-2020) and is frequently invited speaker of the US National Arthritis Foundation. Read more…
One Response
My aunt has been having a lot of problems with her joints because they are really stiff, and pain her a lot of the time. She would really like to get some treatment from a professional in order to be more functional. Thanks for explaining how she can make a journey towards a better life, and reduce the impact of lupus erythematosus, scelerdomera, dermatomyositis, vasculitis, and autoimmune diseases.