RHEUMATOLOGY

Rheumatology is a branch of medicine that deals primarily with diseases of the joints and bones. Rheumatic diseases and degenerative rheumatic changes cause pain and swelling in the joints, which can lead to restricted movement and deformities.

In addition to the musculoskeletal system, rheumatic diseases can affect the entire body, including the skin, muscles, senses, nerves and other tissues, as well as the internal organs.

The most common rheumatic diseases are:

• osteoarthritis (most common in the hips and knees, often also in the fingers),
• extra-articular rheumatism (ligaments, tendons and tendon sheaths are frequently affected),
• inflammatory rheumatic diseases (e.g. rheumatoid arthritis, spondyloarthritis),
• crystal-induced arthritis (e.g. gout and pseudogout),
• systemic connective tissue diseases and systemic vasculitis (which can affect the whole body).

The treatment of rheumatic diseases can relieve joint pain, improve the mobility of the affected joints, and prevent joint deformities.

WHICH SERVICES DOES THE CLINIC OFFER?

We offer patients a rheumatologic clinical examination with a consultation on symptoms and signs, medical history, and family history. If necessary, the doctor will order laboratory tests and carry out a targeted ultrasound examination of individual joints.

WHEN TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT?

Symptoms that require a visit to a rheumatologist include:

• joint pain and/or swelling that is not due to injury or overuse,
• muscle pain that is not due to injury or overuse,
• persistent morning stiffness,
• pronounced pallor of the fingers when exposed to cold,
• pronounced and persistent dryness of the eyes and mouth,
• fever of unknown origin and excessive tiredness,
• persistent general malaise and involuntary weight loss,
• skin changes (e.g. sun rash) and excessive hair loss.

It is important that you first discuss these symptoms with your GP, who may refer you to our clinic.