A to Z of Therapies
Rheumatology
May 1st, 2010
Rheumatology is a sub-specialty of Internal Medicine that deals with a variety of conditions affecting connective tissues of the body, including joints, muscle, bone, the immune and vascular systems. The term originates from the Greek rheuma, meaning "that which flows as a river or stream" and the suffix -ology, meaning "the study of".
Sometimes the term rheumatic disease is used to describe the following group of conditions.
The more common rheumatic diseases include:
Joint Arthritis Disease
- Gout
- Spinal problems
- Osteoarthritis
- Fibromyalgia
- Polymyalgia rheumatica
- Tendonitis
- Osteoporosis
- Paget's disease
There are also a number of rarer rheumatic conditions that can affect other parts of the body including the skin, hair and internal organs. These include 'lupus', myositis, vasculitis and scleroderma.
The Diagnosis
Your Rheumatologist is specially trained to do the detective work necessary to discover the cause of your symptoms. He or she will usually ask you to explain the history of the problem and will undertake a physical examination. Additional investigations such as blood tests, X-rays and scans may also be needed.
Rheumatologists have special interests in unexplained rash, fever, arthritis, anemia, weakness, weight loss, fatigue, joint or muscle pain, autoimmune disease, and anorexia. They often serve as consultants, acting like detectives for other doctors.
Information and Advice
Once a diagnosis is made, your Rheumatologist will explain the nature of your illness and what you might expect in the future. This is an important step, particularly for illnesses that might affect you over a long period.
Treatment
With an accurate diagnosis and a shared understanding of your illness, you and your rheumatologist can work together to design a treatment program aimed at managing pain, reducing inflammation and ensuring your quality of life.
Treatment for my Condition
As your Rheumatologist will explain, there are a number of treatment options available including:
- physical therapy
- general supportive care
- drug treatment and
- surgery
He or she will select the best treatment combination for you, depending on the exact nature of your illness and your other individual needs. In treating and managing your illness, your rheumatologist will also work closely with your General Practitioner as well as other skilled professionals to ensure that you receive the best possible care.
To find a Rheumatologist:
American College of Rheumatology
www.rheumatology.org
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