Who is a Rheumatologist Mykolaiv

A rheumatologist is a doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and development of specific preventive measures aimed at managing diseases of the joints, spine, and connective tissue. These conditions are often accompanied by damage to internal organs, primarily the heart, kidneys, lungs, and nervous system.

Rheumatic diseases are very common, and the number of people suffering from them is increasing every year!

Some diseases may present with so-called “rheumatic masks,” meaning they mimic the symptoms of other conditions. In reality, however, the causes of the disease may be entirely different. Without identifying the true cause, it is impossible to achieve effective treatment.

For example, joint pain may be caused by chronic nasopharyngeal infection, sexually transmitted diseases, liver diseases, metabolic disorders, excess body weight, a sedentary lifestyle, or flat feet. Therefore, in each case, it is necessary to find an individual approach to treatment, taking into account accompanying conditions.

When is a consultation with a rheumatologist necessary?

Main symptoms that require visiting a specialist:

• joint deformation (change in their shape);
• difficulty getting up from bed/chair after prolonged lying or sitting;
• burning sensation in the joint area, the skin over the joint feels significantly warmer than surrounding tissues;
• stiffness of movements, feeling of “rigidity” in the back;
• frequent fractures;
• appearance of a pronounced vascular pattern on the body;
• spots appearing on the limbs ranging from pink to bluish-purple;
• impaired skin sensitivity, appearance of nodules or thickening;
• unexplained increase in body temperature;
• persistent redness of the cheeks and forehead;
• swelling of the temporal arteries;
• swelling/redness of the auricles;
• severe localized headaches that may be accompanied by weakness, increased sweating, and low-grade fever.

How a rheumatologist consultation at ZDRAVO takes place

A rheumatologist consultation at the ZDRAVO medical center is conducted in several stages and is aimed at a comprehensive assessment of the patient’s condition.

During the appointment, the doctor:

1. Collects detailed complaints and medical history (nature of pain, duration of symptoms, family history);
2. Examines joints, spine, and skin, assesses mobility and the presence of swelling;
3. Analyzes results of previous examinations (if available);
4. Prescribes necessary laboratory and instrumental tests;
5. Establishes a preliminary or final diagnosis;
6. Develops an individual treatment and prevention plan.

If necessary, the rheumatologist may recommend consultations with related specialists for a comprehensive treatment approach.

What tests a rheumatologist may prescribe

To establish an accurate diagnosis, a rheumatologist may order additional tests, including:

• complete blood count (CBC);
• biochemical blood test;
• C-reactive protein and rheumatic tests;
• immunological markers (ANA, RF, anti-CCP, etc.);
• ultrasound examination of joints;
• X-ray imaging;
• electrocardiogram (ECG);
• if necessary — ultrasound of the heart, kidneys, and other examinations.

All diagnostic measures are selected individually depending on the symptoms and clinical picture.