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Rheumatology

What is Rheumatology?

Rheumatology is a medical specialty that deals with conditions characterised by inflammation that affects the connecting or supporting structures of the body, such as the joints, tendons, ligaments, bones, and muscles.

Arthritis and osteoarthritis are common kinds of rheumatic disorders that involve joint inflammation. It affects and destroys cartilage, which is the soft tissue that cushions the ends of bones within joints. Rheumatoid arthritis is one of the many different forms of arthritis, is a chronic inflammatory disorder wherein the lining of the joints are severely affected, putting the patient at risk of suffering from joint deformity and bone erosion.

Gout is a condition that is a form of arthritis characterized by swelling of the joints caused by excessive levels of uric acid in the body. All these conditions cause pain and immobility.

Rheumatologists take a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and managing rheumatic diseases. They gather detailed medical historiea, perform a thorough physical examination to assess joint mobility and other physical signs, and utilize laboratory tests and imaging studies to identify inflammation and damage. In addition to prescribing medications to manage pain and disease progression, rheumatologists also recommend lifestyle modifications and refer patients to physical and occupational therapy to improve their overall function and well-being.

Rheumatic diseases encompass a diverse group of disorders, with varying causes, symptoms, and treatment approaches. Some of the most common types include:

  • Osteoarthritis
    This degenerative joint disease is characterized by the breakdown of cartilage, the protective tissue that cushions the ends of bones within joints. It commonly affects weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis
    This chronic inflammatory disorder primarily affects the lining of the joints (synovium), leading to pain, swelling, stiffness, and potential joint damage. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease, meaning the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues.
  • Gout
    This form of arthritis is caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to sudden and intense episodes of pain, swelling, and redness, often affecting the big toe.
  • Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
    This chronic autoimmune disease can affect multiple organs and tissues throughout the body, causing inflammation, pain, fatigue, and skin rashes.
  • Fibromyalgia
    This chronic widespread pain syndrome is characterized by musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and cognitive difficulties.
  • Vasculitis
    This group of disorders involves inflammation of the blood vessels, potentially affecting various organs and causing a wide range of symptoms.

Our dedicated teams of experienced multidisciplnary specialists and healthcare professionals work together to provde treatment plans tailored to the needs of our patients on their recovery journey.

Speak to our Specialists today.

Our Panel of Rheumatology Specialists

Dr. Cheng Yew Kuang
郑有鑛医生

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Dr. Law Weng Giap

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Dr. Eugene Lim Ui Chong

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