What Symptoms Does a Rheumatologist Look For?
A Rheumatologist specializes in Inflammatory and Autoimmune diseases, looking for specific symptoms that go beyond typical muscle aches. The most concerning signs are persistent joint pain and stiffness that is significantly worse in the morning or after periods of rest, lasting for more than 30 minutes. This is often accompanied by noticeable swelling, warmth, or redness in the affected joints.
They specifically Assess for symmetrical joint involvement (affecting both sides of the body, such as both hands or both feet), which is a key indicator of autoimmune conditions like Rheumatoid Arthritis. Beyond the joints, a rheumatologist investigates systemic symptoms, which signal widespread immune dysfunction. These include chronic, unexplained fatigue, recurrent low-grade fever, general malaise, unexplained weight loss, and specific non-joint manifestations like rashes or dry eyes. Recognizing these complex, persistent patterns allows the specialist to diagnose and manage inflammatory diseases that require targeted, long-term treatment.
