Rheumatology is the diagnosis and treatment of an autoimmune disease that attacks your joints and muscles. The immune system, which normally protects the body, is now attacking itself and cannot tell the difference between what’s healthy and what is not.
When you should see a rheumatologist near you
Most people experience joint and muscle pain at one time or another. It may be time to see a rheumatologist when that pain doesn't clear up as expected. If you need to see a rheumatologist, you'll probably be referred to one by your primary care physician, or sometimes by an orthopedic specialist. You also may elect to see a rheumatologist when you've been experiencing frequent muscle or joint pain that other doctors have not been able to diagnose. Rheumatologists treat many rare diseases that are tricky to diagnose, so they are experienced in identifying underlying conditions.
Reasons you should see a rheumatologist
- You've been told you have arthritis.
- You've been diagnosed with a rheumatic disease.
- Your blood tests indicate the presence of rheumatic diseases.
- You have unexplained joint pain and swelling.
- A close family member has a rheumatic disease, and you're experiencing similar symptoms.
- Other doctors haven't been able to figure out what is wrong.
Experience excellence at Lehigh Valley Health Network
Our experienced physicians are fellowship trained in rheumatology and are experts in the diagnosis of complex and rare diseases. Make an appointment with one of our rheumatologists when you are experiencing new joint and muscle pain symptoms, when you need help managing a rheumatic disease or when you would like a second opinion.
Lehigh Valley Health Network offers infusion therapy for rheumatology patients. Infusion therapy is used to deliver medications directly to your bloodstream through an IV in our infusion suite. This treatment process allows the body to absorb the medication faster and lasts longer than an oral medication. Talk to your rheumatologist to see if you are a candidate for infusion therapy.