Symptoms That Indicate You Should Probably See a Rheumatologist
As the name suggests, rheumatologists specialize in treating rheumatoid arthritis and other rheumatic disorders. However, many patients do not realize that they also understand and treat other autoimmune conditions. You should not just see the rheumatologist if you are suffering from joint pain. There are a few other, often overlooked symptoms that similarly indicate that you may have an autoimmune disorder and that you should see a specialist for diagnosis and care.
Long-Lasting Fatigue
Most people feel tired now and then. But when your fatigue becomes long-lasting and chronic, there is often something more sinister at play, and sometimes that something is an autoimmune condition. If you struggle to get out of bed many mornings, rarely feel like partaking in activities you used to love, and are just feeling sluggish overall, schedule an appointment with a rheumatologist.
Mysterious Lesions and Face Rashes
If you've been developing random face rashes and skin lesions, your first thought may be to visit a dermatologist. And this is not a bad choice. However, there is also a chance your troubles are being caused by lupus or a similar autoimmune disorder. Lupus, in particular, has been known to cause a butterfly-shaped face rash that comes and goes. It may also cause you to develop red, patchy lesions after you spend time in the sun.
If you see a dermatologist for these problems, they're likely to refer you to a rheumatologist for more specialized care. Likewise, if you do see a rheumatologist and they feel your problem is solely skin-related, they'll send you to the dermatologist. So really, you can see either doctor first.
Ongoing Digestive Issues
Maybe you have had diarrhea and loose stools for weeks. Or perhaps you've been alternating between constipation and loose stools for months on end. Sometimes these symptoms are due to Crohn's disease or celiac disease, both of which are autoimmune conditions.
A rheumatologist can be a good first stop on your journey towards a diagnosis. They will likely work alongside a gastroenterology specialist to determine exactly what is causing your digestive troubles and how to best manage it. The rheumatologist will typically handle the more cellular, chemistry-driven aspects of the disease, whereas the gastroenterologist will do more of the functional work, such as making dietary recommendations and ordering colonoscopies.
Rheumatologists do treat joint pain, but they also treat other autoimmune disorders. If you have any reason to believe you may have an autoimmune condition, this is the type of doctor you should seek out. Visit services like Sarasota Arthritis Center to learn more.
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