Rheumatology
Two of the most common disorders are arthritis, which targets your joints, and musculoskeletal diseases, like carpal tunnel or tendonitis.
Common Symptoms
Inflammation
Loss of motion
Muscle atrophy
Muscle weakness
Pain
Redness
Swelling
Common Conditions
Ankylosing SpondylitisArthritis affecting the spine.
ArthritisTargets your joints.
GoutA form of arthritis characterized by severe pain, redness, and tenderness in joints.
Immune system disordersConditions where the immune system attacks the body's tissues.
Musculoskeletal diseasesSuch as carpal tunnel or tendonitis.
MyositisInflammation of the muscles.
OsteoarthritisDegeneration of joint cartilage and the underlying bone.
Psoriatic arthritisArthritis that affects some people with psoriasis.
PseudogoutSimilar to gout but caused by calcium crystals.
Rheumatoid arthritisChronic inflammation of the joints.
Sjogren’s diseaseAn immune system disorder characterized by dry eyes and mouth.
Systemic lupus erythematosusAn autoimmune disease that affects various parts of the body.
Systemic sclerosisHardening and tightening of the skin and connective tissues.
VasculitisInflammation of the blood vessels.
Ankylosing Spondylitis
Arthritis affecting the spine.
Arthritis
Targets your joints.
Gout
A form of arthritis characterized by severe pain, redness, and tenderness in joints.
Immune system disorders
Conditions where the immune system attacks the body’s tissues.
Musculoskeletal diseases
Such as carpal tunnel or tendonitis.
Myositis
Inflammation of the muscles.
Osteoarthritis
Degeneration of joint cartilage and the underlying bone.
Psoriatic arthritis
Arthritis that affects some people with psoriasis.
Pseudogout
Similar to gout but caused by calcium crystals.
Rheumatoid arthritis
Chronic inflammation of the joints.
Sjogren’s disease
An immune system disorder characterized by dry eyes and mouth.
Systemic lupus erythematosus
An autoimmune disease that affects various parts of the body.
Systemic sclerosis
Hardening and tightening of the skin and connective tissues.
Vasculitis
Inflammation of the blood vessels.
Treatment
While treatment plans are tailored to individual needs, common treatments may include:
Lifestyle modifications
Diet changes, exercise routines, and stress management.
Medications
Anti-inflammatory drugs, pain relievers, and immune system suppressants.
Physical therapy
Customized exercises to improve mobility and strength.
Surgical options
In severe cases, surgical interventions may be necessary.
What Are the Risk Factors?
Rheumatological conditions can affect any part of your body.
They can cause serious pain and even interfere with everyday activities. While there is not one specific cause of these conditions, there are many factors that could contribute to a rheumatological condition, including:
- Activity level: Both excessive physical activity and lack of exercise can be risk factors.
- Age: The risk increases with age.
- Gender: Some conditions are more prevalent in certain genders.
- Genetics: Family history can play a significant role.
- Infections: Certain infections can trigger rheumatological conditions.
- Lifestyle: Poor diet, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption can contribute.
- Occupation: Jobs that require repetitive motion or heavy lifting.
- Pollution: Environmental factors can influence the onset.
- Poor posture: Improper posture can lead to musculoskeletal issues.
- Sitting for long periods: Sedentary lifestyles can increase risk.
Why Choose Cook County Health for Rheumatology?
Choosing the right care for rheumatological conditions is critical. Our clinic offers:
- Expertise: Our team includes highly experienced and board-certified rheumatologists.
- Comprehensive Care: From diagnosis to treatment, we provide a full spectrum of rheumatology services.
- Patient-Centered Approach: We tailor treatments to each patient’s unique needs.
- Advanced Treatment Options: Access to the latest therapies and treatments.
- Collaborative Care: Coordination with other specialists for holistic care.
Providers
Locations
Care Close to Home
High quality care with a large network of health care centers in Cook County
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