Insight Rheumatology – Rheumatologists specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of autoimmune conditions, which include a wide range of disorders such rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and osteoporosis. Millions of people worldwide are affected by an autoimmune condition, yet many go undiagnosed because their symptoms are so similar to other health issues and can be difficult to identify. If you are experiencing persistent symptoms without a clear diagnosis, an autoimmune disorder could be the underlying cause. Here are five common signs you may have an autoimmune condition.
Chronic Fatigue
One of the most common signs of an autoimmune condition is recurring fatigue that does not go away, even after plenty of rest. Patients experiencing chronic fatigue related to autoimmune conditions often describe their symptoms as more than just feeling tired during the day. This is significant exhaustion that impacts quality of life and makes it difficult to function on a normal basis. Chronic fatigue is particularly common in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis.
Unexplained Joint Pain and Swelling
If you are experiencing unexplained joint pain, swelling, or stiffness that does not go away, it could be a sign of arthritis. Inflammation associated with arthritis occurs when the immune system attacks healthy joint tissue. This discomfort typically impacts multiple joints and is more likely to occur in the morning or after prolonged periods of inactivity.
Recurring Fever and Brain Fog
Frequent low-grade fevers without an obvious illness are another sign of an autoimmune condition. These fevers occur because your immune system is in a constant state of activation. Autoimmune conditions can also cause recurring brain fog, which impacts quality of life by making it difficult to concentrate and remember information.
Neurological Symptoms
Certain neurological symptoms of varying severity, including numbness and tingling, muscle weakness, coordination issues, and headaches, are common with autoimmune conditions. These symptoms occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks nerve cells and their protective barriers, leading to pain, fatigue, and diminished quality of life.
Sensitivity to Cold and Heat
Autoimmune conditions often disrupt the body’s ability to regulate temperature, which can lead to sensitivity in cold and hot climates. For example, conditions such as multiple sclerosis and lupus attacks the myelin sheath protecting the nerves, interfering with the body’s ability to control temperature. Other autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and Raynaud’s phenomenon can cause inflammation of the blood vessels, which impact blood flow and temperature.
Autoimmune disorders can affect almost any part of your body and are difficult to diagnose, which is why recognizing the early signs and symptoms is essential to getting relief and managing your diagnosis. Although these signs do not necessarily mean you have an autoimmune disorder, seeking the advice of a rheumatology specialist is recommended if you have experienced similar symptoms for a prolonged period without relief. Insight Rheumatology in Flint, Dearborn, and Warren is currently accepting new patients. Contact us to learn more about our services and schedule an appointment today.
FAQ
Q: What does a rheumatologist do?
A: A rheumatologist specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the immune system. This mostly includes conditions related to the joints, muscles, and bones, such as arthritis.
Q: How do I know if my symptoms are serious enough to see a rheumatologist?
A: If you are experiencing persistent symptoms, such as joint pain, swelling, and loss of function, you should consider visiting a rheumatologist. It is also recommended people see a rheumatologist if symptoms do not respond to over the counter pain medications or other conservative treatments.
Q: Can rheumatologists help with chronic pain?
A: Yes. Rheumatologists have extensive experience treating arthritis, gout, osteoporosis, and other conditions associated with chronic pain. Rheumatologists also work closely with pain management physicians who can recommend personalized treatment plans tailored to an individual’s specific condition.