When should you see a rheumatologist?

• If you have any of the disorders mentioned on this website

• If you have pain in the joints, muscles, or bones that is severe, disabling, or lasts for more than a few days

• If you have joint swelling, stiffness, muscle weakness, any undiagnosed rashes, Raynaud’s phenomenon (color change and/or numbness and pain in your fingertips and toes in response to cold or stress), dryness in the eyes or mouth, severe fatigue, or any other unusual or unexplained symptoms, as they could be a sign of a serious systemic autoimmune disorder.

• If your primary care physician refers you for a rheumatologic consultation.  This may be recommended to evaluate any unexplained symptoms as listed above or because of the abnormal blood work, such as high/positive Anti-Nuclear Antibody (ANA), Rheumatoid Factor (RF), muscle enzymes (such as CK), or markers of inflammation (CRP or ESR (sed. rate)).

• If you have any other questions or concerns about your symptoms, which you feel may be related to a rheumatic disorder.