Rheumatology
Rheumatologists at Valley Health Rheumatology diagnose and treat systemic autoimmune or inflammatory conditions, which occur when the immune system is overactive and causes inflammation somewhere in the body. These diseases can affect the joints, skin, connective tissues, muscles, and bones, causing pain, swelling, stiffness, and potentially joint deformities. Some conditions may affect internal organs such as the lungs and kidneys, or the vascular system.
Common conditions treated by our rheumatology specialists include:
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Gout
- Lupus
Our rheumatologists also treat conditions such as:
- Sjogren’s syndrome, a connective tissue disease similar to lupus
- Ankylosing spondylitis, a type of arthritis affecting the spine
- Inflammatory myopathy
- Systemic sclerosis
- Systemic vasculitis
- Osteoarthritis
- Osteoporosis
Diagnosis
The severity and duration of symptoms such as joint pain or swelling, skin rash and photosensitivity can help lead to a diagnosis of autoimmune or inflammatory conditions. Blood tests and imaging tests may be recommended to support diagnosis. Family history may sometimes suggest potential risk factors.
Treatment
Our rheumatology specialists offer a range of treatment options. They listen to patients’ concerns, review treatment options, and involve patients in the decision-making process for the plan of care and appropriate treatment. Treatment options range from monitoring symptoms of mild disease to medications to relieve moderate to severe symptoms or slow disease progression.
Some medications called biologics target the immune system and may slow or stop inflammation. These medications are used to treat more severe autoimmune conditions and require regular follow-up, as they can increase the risk of infection. For patients using biologics, our rheumatologists work closely with their primary care providers to help manage infection risk.
For patients whose condition is systemic, involving the skin and/or internal organs, the rheumatologists collaborate with dermatologists, nephrologists, pulmonologists, or other specialists on the treatment approach for those patients.
To learn more about Valley Health Rheumatology, click here or call 540-536-6200.
