Rheumatologists diagnose and manage a wide range of conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, gout, scleroderma, Sjögren's syndrome, and vasculitis, among others.

Rheumatologists use a combination of patient history, physical examination, laboratory tests (such as blood tests for inflammatory markers and autoantibodies), imaging studies (like X-rays, MRI, and ultrasound), and sometimes joint aspiration (removing fluid from a joint for analysis) to diagnose rheumatic diseases accurately.

Treatment for rheumatic diseases depends on the specific condition and its severity. Rheumatologists may prescribe medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), biologic therapies, corticosteroids, or immunosuppressants. In addition to medications, physical therapy, lifestyle modifications, and joint injections may also be part of the treatment plan.

While there is no cure for most rheumatic diseases, effective management can help control symptoms, prevent joint damage, and improve the quality of life for patients. Early diagnosis and aggressive treatment strategies are often key to achieving remission or controlling disease activity.

Rheumatic diseases can have significant long-term effects on physical function, mobility, and overall health. Chronic inflammation in the joints and tissues can lead to joint damage, deformities, disability, and systemic complications affecting other organs such as the heart, lungs, and kidneys. Regular monitoring by a rheumatologist and adherence to treatment plans can help minimize these effects.

You should consider seeing a rheumatologist if you experience persistent joint pain, swelling, stiffness, or other symptoms suggestive of rheumatic disease, especially if these symptoms interfere with daily activities or if you have a family history of rheumatic conditions. A rheumatologist can perform a comprehensive evaluation, make an accurate diagnosis, and recommend appropriate treatment options tailored to your specific needs.