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What is a Rheumatologist? |
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A rheumatologist is an
internist or pediatrician who is qualified by additional
training and experience in the diagnosis and treatment of
arthritis and other diseases of the joints, muscles and bones.
Many rheumatologists conduct research to determine the cause
and better treatments for these disabling and sometimes fatal
diseases. |
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What Kind of Training Do Rheumatologists Have? |
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After four years of
medical school and three years of training in either internal
medicine or pediatrics, rheumatologists devote an additional
two to three years in specialized rheumatology training. Most
rheumatologists who plan to treat patients choose to become
board certified. Upon completion of their training, they must
pass a rigorous exam conducted by the American Board of
Internal Medicine to become certified. |
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What Do Rheumatologists Treat? |
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Rheumatologists treat
arthritis, certain autoimmune diseases, musculoskeletal pain
disorders and osteoporosis. There are more than 100 types of
these diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis,
osteoarthritis, gout, lupus, back pain, osteoporosis,
fibromyalgia and tendonitis. Some of these are very serious
diseases that can be difficult to diagnose and treat. |
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When Should You See A Rheumatologist? |
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If musculoskeletal
pains are not severe or disabling and last just a few days, it
makes sense to give the problem a reasonable chance to be
resolved. But sometimes, pain in the joints, muscles or bones
is severe or persists for more than a few days. At that point,
you should see your physician.
Many types of rheumatic diseases are not easily identified in
the early stages. Rheumatologists are specially trained to do
the detective work necessary to discover the cause of swelling
and pain. It's important to determine a correct diagnosis
early so that appropriate treatment can begin early. Some
musculoskeletal disorders respond best to treatment in the
early stages of the disease.
Because some rheumatic diseases are
complex, one visit to a rheumatologist may not be enough to
determine a diagnosis and course of treatment. These diseases
often change or evolve over time. Rheumatologists work closely
with patients to identify the problem and design an
individualized treatment program. |
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How
Does the Rheumatologist Work with Other Health Care
Professionals? |
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The role the
rheumatologist plays in health care depends on several factors
and needs. Typically the rheumatologist works with other
physicians, sometimes acting as a consultant to advise another
physician about a specific diagnosis and treatment plan. In
other situations, the rheumatologists acts as a manager,
relying upon the help of many skilled professionals including
nurses, physical and occupational therapists, psychologists
and social workers. Teamwork is important, since
musculoskeletal disorders are chronic. Health care
professionals can help people with musculoskeletal diseases
and their families cope with the changes the diseases cause in
their lives. |
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Is
Specialty Care More Expensive? |
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You may be surprised
to learn that specialized care may save time and money and
reduce the severity of disease. A rheumatologist is specially
trained to spot clues in the medical history and physical
examination. The proper tests done early may save money in the
long run. Prompt diagnosis and specially tailored treatment
often save money and buy time in treating the disease. |
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Reproduced
with permission of the American College of Rheumatology,
Copyright 2005
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