What is Rheumatism?
In general, problems of our muscles, bones and joints are defined as Rheumatism. Rheumatism is not a single disease. In general Rheumatic Diseases can be assorted in two sections: inflammatory and non-inflammatory diseases. This differentiation is important as treatment of these two conditions is completely different.
Rheumatic disorders are considered as diseases of the elderly, but controversy inflammatory rheumatism may arise at all ages. Early diagnosis and treatment is important not only in protection of the joints in long term but also in prevention of life threatening outcomes. Though there are several rheumatic disorders, diagnosis of rheumatism might take long time.
Do you suspect from Rheumatism?
If you have one or more of the following complaints, you may suspect that you have rheumatism. However, rheumatism should only be diagnosed by your doctor. It is widely known that rheumatism is an advanced age disease, but it can arise at any age.
- Resistant joint pain
- Tenderness in joints
- Inflammation with swelling, stiffness, warmth and redness in joints
- Deformity in joints
- Difficulty in using the joints, loss of motion or flexibility
- Fatigue
- Especially in mornings, stiffness on the whole body lasting more than 30 minutes, back pain more in the mornings
Patient Assessment Process in the Rheumatology Outpatient Clinic at Başkent University Ankara Hospital is as following:
Detailed history taking is at utmost importance for accurate diagnosis and treatment for Rheumatologic Disorders. It is preferred to assess Foreign Patients with their native languages, fort his sake interpretation services are available at the hospital. Following the initial assessment, required rheumatologic tests are requested by physicians. Results of these tests are received in general within a few days. Patients are contacted by phone calls or e-mail communication for follow-up.
