As we age, it is natural to experience a few more aches and pains each year. That said, knowing when to see a rheumatologist can help manage these pains and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Rheumatologists are doctors who treat rheumatic diseases, which include arthritis and several other conditions that affect the joints, tendons, ligaments, bones, and muscles.
Below, this rheumatologist in Northwest Indiana is going to explore some of the signs that it’s time to consult with a rheumatologist.
What conditions can be treated by rheumatologists?
If are dealing with ongoing pain, stiffness, or swelling in your joints or muscles, it might be time to schedule a visit with a rheumatologist in Northwest Indiana. They treat conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, for example, which is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the joints and sometimes other organs. They also treat osteoporosis, which is a condition where your bone mineral density and mass decrease, making your bones more likely to break.
Licensed rheumatologists also treat a wide range of other conditions, such as lupus, osteoarthritis (the most common form of arthritis), gout, scleroderma, psoriatic arthritis, and Lyme disease.
What are some root causes of rheumatic diseases?
Rheumatic diseases are often the result of a combination of genetic and environmental factors. For example, some people have genes that put them at a higher risk for conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis. However, it might take an environmental trigger to activate these diseases. Gender also plays a role. For example, lupus is more common in women, and men are more likely to get gout.
Why should you visit a rheumatologist?
A reputable rheumatologist in Northwest Indiana can provide the necessary medical care for your specific condition. Many people assume pain and stiffness are just part of aging, but this is not always true.
Pain should not be accepted as a normal part of aging. Regular exercise and an active lifestyle can improve muscle strength, reduce joint pain and stiffness, and lower the risk of disability. If pain is stopping you from being active, talk to a rheumatologist in Northwest Indiana.
What are the benefits of receiving proper treatment?
There is no cure for most rheumatic diseases, but many treatments can make life much better. Treatments can reduce swelling and pain and prevent joint damage. Medications like Disease Modifying Anti-rheumatic Drugs (DMARDs), physiotherapy, and sometimes surgical options are all used to manage these diseases. Newer treatments, like biologics for rheumatoid arthritis, have helped many people live active and almost pain-free lives.
Why is it important to stay active?
As you may have heard, it’s important for individuals to stay active when dealing with a rheumatic disease. Regular exercise can improve your muscle strength and joint flexibility. If pain is stopping you from exercising, talk to a rheumatologist in Northwest Indiana. They can help you find safe ways to stay active without increasing your pain. Always be honest with your doctor so they can help you manage your symptoms better.
The importance of seeking early help
Living with a rheumatic disease can be hard, but proper care and treatment can improve your quality of life. Knowing when to see a rheumatologist in Northwest Indiana and getting help early are critical steps in managing your condition. So, if you have joint pain, stiffness, or other symptoms, don’t wait to get help from an experienced rheumatologist.
Looking for an Affordable Rheumatologist in Northwest Indiana?
Are you looking for a qualified rheumatologist in Northwest Indiana who can help you improve your quality of life? If so, our rheumatologists at 219 Health Network are the people to call. Contact us today at 833-219-0001 to schedule an appointment and start managing your condition better.