An autoimmune condition occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own cells. So, it is essentially, a self-inflicted assault.
It can lead to a range of disorders that can affect various organs and tissues of your system in varied ways. The impact for example may cause symptoms like fatigue, joint pain, and inflammation.
If you have symptoms that are suggestive of an autoimmune disease, you may be referred to a rheumatologist clinic in Singapore. See what they do on this page: https://aarc.sg/asia-arthritis-rheumatology-centre/.
Specializing in disorders of the joints, muscles, and immune system, you can count on the specialists at the clinic to diagnose and help you manage autoimmune conditions.
But Do Rheumatologists Treat All Autoimmune Diseases?
Rheumatologists receive extensive training to help in the management of autoimmune diseases. So, if you’re diagnosed with or suspect that you could be living with an autoimmune disease and wondering if the nearest rheumatology clinic in Singapore is the best place to visit you may wonder; do rheumatologists treat all autoimmune diseases? Here’s a good answer;
Rheumatologists specialize in autoimmune diseases that affect the joints and soft tissues, like arthritis. They’re the right doctors for conditions like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. But, they aren’t universal experts for autoimmune diseases as these conditions involve various organs and systems. So, rheumatologists do not treat all autoimmune diseases.
However, they might collaborate with other specialists including dermatologists, gastroenterologists, etc.—to help address specific autoimmune disorders.
Why Would I be referred to a Rheumatologist?
Your primary care doctor can help with most ailments. So, if they recommend a visit to a rheumatology clinic in Singapore, you may wonder; why would I be referred to a rheumatologist?
There are several reasons why you may be referred to a rheumatologist. However, the most notable ones include;
- If you’ve been diagnosed with inflammatory arthritis or if your primary care provider thinks that you could be having inflammatory arthritis.
- If you need help with managing inflammatory arthritis and
- If you get unexpected complications or strange symptoms.
These are explained below;
· Diagnosis or Suspected Inflammatory Arthritis
Your primary health care provider might refer you to a rheumatologist if they diagnose or suspect an inflammatory type of arthritis, like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or psoriatic arthritis. The aim of a referral like this is to confirm the diagnosis.
It helps ensure accurate identification of the specific type of arthritis and initiating appropriate treatment. And since rheumatologists possess specialized knowledge in rheumatoid conditions, you and your PCP can count on them to help distinguish various inflammatory arthritic conditions.
On your visit to the rheumatologist clinic in Singapore, some of the things you can expect include in-depth assessments which include physical examinations, imaging, and laboratory tests. These exams can pinpoint the exact nature of the arthritis.
The approach adopted here is carefully designed to ensure a precise diagnosis for an effective treatment plan tailored to your specific condition. Seeking a rheumatologist’s expertise in the early stages of arthritis can significantly impact disease management. In fact, it can potentially slow down progression and minimize long-term joint damage.
· Management Plan for Inflammatory Arthritis
A referral to a rheumatologist may also be warranted if you require a comprehensive management plan for inflammatory arthritis. This is important as these specialists are well-versed in these conditions.
For treatment, they can help you devise personalized strategies to control symptoms, prevent complications, and optimize your overall well-being. Good rheumatologists also appreciate collaboration with patients to develop tailored treatment regimens.
This may incorporate medications, lifestyle modifications, and, if necessary, physical therapy. Through regular follow-ups and adjustments to the management plan, they ensure ongoing effectiveness and address any emerging challenges.
This approach ensures that even when living with inflammatory arthritis you can actively participate in your care. This allows for a sense of control and promotes a better quality of life.
· Unexpected Complications and Unexplained Symptoms
You may also be referred to a rheumatology clinic in Singapore if you get unexpected complications. These can range from unexplained fever, to abnormal laboratory findings, or the onset of ambiguous symptoms like fatigue, rash, or anemia.
Since rheumatologists are trained on how to investigate these complexities, you and your PCP can count on them to help reveal the underlying causes and also help formulate targeted treatments. In such cases, the rheumatologist will conduct a thorough evaluation and use their specialized knowledge to connect disparate symptoms and identify potential systemic issues.
How do you know if you need a Rheumatologist?
As part of being on top of your health, you may also want to be keen on knowing when to visit a rheumatology clinic in Singapore even without being referred to one. With this in mind, you may want to ask; how do you know if you need to see a rheumatologist?
To know if you need to see a rheumatologist, you will mostly rely on the symptoms you’re getting or recommendations from medical specialists like your PCP for example. Here are five indications you need to see a rheumatologist;
- Unexplained Joint Pains and Swelling: If your joints ache persistently without a clear cause or if swelling lingers for over 7 days, seeking a rheumatologist’s expertise is crucial. With prompt evaluation, you have the best chance of getting targeted treatment.
- Repeated Episodes of Joint Pains, Swelling, Fever, or Skin Rash: Recurrent bouts of joint pain, swelling, fever, or skin rash shouldn’t be ignored. These may signal an underlying issue. A rheumatologist can accurately diagnose and tailor solutions to ensure lasting relief.
- Personalized Treatment Plan: A visit to a rheumatology clinic in Singapore may also be warranted if you’re looking for a customized treatment plan. This may actually be appropriate following a thorough assessment by your primary care physician. Using the report by your PCP including your medical history and diagnostic results, a skilled rheumatologist can help you create a personalized plan.
- Frequent Gout Attacks Despite Medication: Gout attacks should subside with medication. If you’re noticing the opposite despite medication, it is best to consult a rheumatologist. This is important as they give you the best chances of optimal management and improved quality of life.
- Concerns about Underlying Rheumatic Conditions: Persistent worries about potential rheumatic conditions warrant a rheumatologist’s expertise. Timely consultation can be the only thing you need for early detection. It can also pave the way for effective management, and peace of mind regarding your health.
In Closing
A rheumatologist can help you treat many autoimmune diseases but not all of them. However, if recommended a visit to a rheumatology clinic by your PCP, it is best to proceed with the visit as they understand that a rheumatologist is best placed to help with the diagnosis and tailored treatment.
