Rheumatology

In the Rheumatology Department of Florence Nightingale Hospitals, the diagnosis and follow-up of rheumatological diseases are carried out meticulously by rheumatologists.

Rheumatic diseases can be generally classified as inflammatory and non-inflammatory. The most common diseases among non-inflammatory rheumatic diseases are degenerative joint diseases (osteoarthritis), commonly known as calcification, and soft tissue rheumatism (myalgia, fibromyalgia, tendonitis), which is accompanied by pain in the soft tissues of the neck, back, arms and legs.

Inflammatory rheumatic diseases usually occur as a result of various disorders in the immune system (genetic predispositions, environmental factors, infections, etc.) and can occur with a non-microbial inflammation in the joints and sometimes in organs such as the eyes, heart, lungs and kidneys.

What is Rheumatology?

Rheumatology is a medical specialty that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases affecting the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue. Doctors who work in this field are called "rheumatologists." Rheumatologists specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the joints, muscles, bones, and connective tissue.

What Diseases Does Rheumatology Treat?

Rheumatology covers a wide range of diseases. These include rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, lupus (SLE), gout, Sjögren syndrome, vasculitis and fibromyalgia. Rheumatological diseases are often chronic and may require long-term treatment.

What are the symptoms of rheumatological diseases?

Rheumatological diseases can present with a variety of symptoms, and these symptoms can vary depending on the type and severity of the disease. The most common symptoms are:

• Joint Pain and Swelling: It is one of the most common symptoms of rheumatological diseases. Pain is usually caused by inflammation and swelling, redness and warmth may be seen in the joints. Joint pain and swelling usually occur symmetrically (such as both hands or knees).
• Morning Stiffness: A condition in which stiffness and limited movement are felt in the joints in the morning. This stiffness usually lasts for more than an hour and gradually decreases throughout the day. It is commonly seen in inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.
• Muscle Pain and Weakness: Rheumatic diseases can also affect the muscles, leading to muscle pain and weakness. Diseases such as fibromyalgia include widespread muscle pain and tender points.
• Skin Rashes: Some rheumatologic diseases, such as lupus, can cause skin rashes. These rashes usually appear on the face, especially on the nose and cheeks, in a butterfly shape. In diseases such as vasculitis, small, red dots or sores may appear on the skin.
• Dryness of the Eyes, Mouth and Other Mucosa: Significant dryness of the eyes and mouth can be seen in diseases such as Sjögren's syndrome. Dryness can cause burning and itching in the eyes and a constant feeling of thirst in the mouth.
• Fever and Fatigue: Due to chronic inflammation, patients may often feel tired and experience low-grade fevers. These symptoms can negatively impact overall health and reduce quality of life.
• Limited Movement: Pain and stiffness in joints and muscles can lead to restrictions on mobility. Limited movement can make it difficult to perform daily activities and reduce the patient's quality of life.

These symptoms provide important clues for early diagnosis and treatment of rheumatological diseases. The severity and combination of symptoms help rheumatologists determine the diagnosis and treatment plan of the disease. Early diagnosis and treatment can slow down the progression of the disease and improve the quality of life of patients.

How is a Rheumatology Examination Performed?

A rheumatology evaluation begins with a detailed medical history and physical examination. The doctor evaluates the joints, muscles, and other related structures. He or she may also gather information about the patient's lifestyle and how their symptoms affect daily life. If necessary, more detailed examinations and tests may be ordered.

What are Rheumatology Tests?

Tests used in the diagnosis of rheumatological diseases are:

• Blood tests (such as erythrocyte sedimentation rate, CRP, rheumatoid factor, anti-CCP)
• Imaging tests (x-ray, MRI, ultrasound)
• Synovial fluid analysis (examination of joint fluid)
• Biopsy (examination of skin or other tissue)

What are the Rheumatology Treatment Methods?

Various methods are used in the treatment of rheumatological diseases. Treatment is usually planned depending on the type and severity of the disease and the general health status of the patient. The main treatment methods are:

• Drug therapy (anti-inflammatory drugs, immunosuppressives, biologic agents)
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Lifestyle changes (diet, exercise, stress management)
• Surgical interventions (if necessary)

What are the Common Rheumatic Diseases?

Some diseases frequently encountered in rheumatology practice are:

• Rheumatoid Arthritis: A chronic and inflammatory joint disease that causes pain, swelling and morning stiffness in the joints. It usually affects the joints of the hands and feet.
• Osteoarthritis: A degenerative disease caused by the wearing away of joint cartilage. It causes pain and stiffness in large joints such as the knees, hips and spine.
• Ankylosing Spondylitis: A chronic inflammatory disease affecting the spine and pelvic joints. Characterized by low back pain and spinal stiffness.
• Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): An autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks its own tissues. It can cause joint pain, skin rashes and kidney problems.
• Sjögren's Syndrome: An autoimmune disease that attacks the glands that produce moisture, causing dryness in the eyes and mouth.
• Gout: A painful type of arthritis caused by crystals building up in the joints due to high levels of uric acid in the blood. It usually affects the big toe.
• Vasculitis: A group of diseases characterized by inflammation of blood vessels. It can disrupt blood flow to organs and tissues, causing damage.
• Fibromyalgia: A chronic disease characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain and fatigue. There are points of pain and tenderness throughout the body.

Rheumatology plays an important role in the diagnosis and treatment of these diseases and aims to improve the quality of life of patients. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment of rheumatological diseases can improve long-term health outcomes of patients.