42+ Best Rheumatologist in Delhi

Who is a rheumatologist?

A rheumatologist is an internist or pediatrician who has received further training in the diagnosis (detection) and treatment of diseases that affect the muscles, bones, joints, ligaments, and tendons. These diseases can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness, and potentially cause joint deformities. An old-fashioned word for these problems is “rheumatism.” Therefore, a “rheumatologist” is a doctor that treats rheumatism.

What are the qualifications of a rheumatology specialist?

Rheumatologists must complete three to four years of medical or osteopathic education, followed by three years of residency training in either internal medicine or pediatrics. Some rheumatologists are trained in both internal medicine and pediatrics. A rheumatologist who completes medical school uses the initials MD (medical doctor) after his/her name, while a rheumatologist who finishes osteopathic school uses the initials DO (doctor of osteopathy).

However, both types of doctors receive similar training, and both are similar in their expertise and care. After residency, they must participate in a rheumatology fellowship for two to three years to specialize in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal and autoimmune conditions. Most rheumatologists then take an examination that tests their knowledge of rheumatology (called a board examination). Rheumatologists who pass this exam are noted to be “board certified.”

Note, that a rheumatologist is not required to be board certified or to participate in MOC to practice medicine as a rheumatologist. However, having these designations demonstrates additional motivation and work on the rheumatologist’s part to strive to be the best rheumatologist he or she can be. To maintain a medical license, rheumatologists must participate in classes or studies that cover current medical practices. These courses are called continuing medical education, or CME for short.

What does a rheumatologist do?

Rheumatologists diagnose, treat, and manage a broad range of conditions, including:

• Inflammatory (rheumatic) disorders that affect muscles, joints, and bones.
• Connective tissue diseases affect supporting structures like your ligaments and tendons, and may involve the skin and other organs.
• Autoimmune diseases happen when your immune system attacks healthy tissue.

What diseases does a rheumatologist treat?

You should consider seeing a rheumatologist sooner if you have relatives with an autoimmune or rheumatic disease (as these conditions often run in families) or if the symptoms are significantly worsening over a short period. Some of the signs and symptoms can improve or temporarily resolve when initially treated, but they can occasionally recur after you stop treatment. If the symptoms continue to return, a rheumatology evaluation may be needed.

Joint damage may potentially occur in some rheumatic diseases. Therefore, it is essential to see a rheumatologist sooner rather than later. Quicker diagnosis and treatment can prevent permanent damage to the joints in many diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis. This damage cannot always be reversed with treatment and may be permanent. Do not delay appropriate evaluation.

Common problems you should see a rheumatologist for

• Beçhet’s disease
• Psoriatic arthritis
• Osteoporosis
• Rheumatic fever
• Scleroderma
• Sarcoidosis
• Sjögren’s syndrome

For which symptoms should one consult a rheumatologist?

Symptoms of rheumatic disease include:

• Dermatitis
• Dry eyes
• Dry mouth
• Fatigue
• Hair loss (alopecia)
• Inflammation in the lining of the lungs
• Itches
• Muscle weakness
• Stiffness
• Swelling
• Swollen lymph nodes

When should I go to the rheumatologist?

Most everyone experiences muscle, bone, or joint pain from time to time. When the pain does not resolve as one would expect, additional evaluation may be needed. Typically, a primary care, urgent care, or emergency room provider (physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant) is seen for the first evaluation.

If there is a concern about an underlying rheumatic condition, he/she may refer you to rheumatology for evaluation. Occasionally, other health care providers such as physical therapists, occupational therapists, chiropractors, orthopedic surgeons, or other medical specialists may recommend that you see a rheumatologist.

Your evaluation may include one or more diagnostic tests, including:

• Biopsy to test tissue for signs of autoimmune disease
• Blood tests to check liver or kidney function
• Bone density test (DEXA scan)
• CT scan, MRI, or ultrasound to view organs and structures
• Chest X-ray to assess lung issues
• Heart tests, such as an electrocardiogram
• Electromyogram, which measures nerve and muscle functioning
• Endoscopy to evaluate gastrointestinal symptoms

Does the rheumatologist provide home consultations?

Yes, you can consult the ear nose throat ent specialist online in 15 minutes. The best way to diagnose and treat medical issues is through video calls or chat sessions with rheumatologists.

• If you are a new patient, it may be a few weeks before you can get an appointment. During this time, there are steps you can take to prepare. These include:
• Organizing your records: The rheumatologist will want to see notes from previous doctors. It’s also helpful to get copies of lab and imaging test results.
• Documenting your medical history: This includes medications you are taking for other medical issues. You should also note any vitamins or supplements you are taking.
• Keeping a symptom journal: You may experience a variety of symptoms. And they can change quickly or come and go. Writing down your symptoms and how often you experience them will help you remember all the details.

How much does it cost to see a rheumatologist in Delhi?

There are various visitation fees for rheumatologists. The main factor is the area in which you live. A consultation with a rheumatologist typically costs between 500 and 1500 Indian rupees. Additionally, the type of treatment received and the severity of the condition are other variables that affect the fee.

Typically, the insurance co-pay is higher to see a specialist than a primary care physician. You may be surprised to learn that specialized care may save time and money in the long term, as well as reduce the severity of the disease.

Can a rheumatologist perform surgery?

No, rheumatologists do not perform surgeries. They usually perform physical exams, diagnostic tests, labs, and imaging tests.

A rheumatologist has specialized training to spot clues in the history, physical exam, and test results that can lead to an earlier diagnosis. The rheumatologist is knowledgeable about testing that may reduce unnecessary procedures and save you money.

How do I find a rheumatologist in Delhi?

Lybrate (www.lybrate.com) can help you find the perfect rheumatologist. By connecting with Lybrate, you can choose from among the best rheumatologists near Delhi.

How to choose a rheumatologist in Delhi?

• Research the Rheumatologist's Credentials
• Consider the rheumatologist's Experience
• Consider Gender
• Ask About Telehealth Capabilities
• Evaluate Communication Style
• Read Patient Reviews
• Know What Your Insurance Covers