Communication Guide — How to Interact with Your Rheumatologist

Rheumatologists are doctors specializing in a field adult internal medicine. They have received special training in pain-related diseases, including autoimmune conditions namely rheumatism, affecting joint, muscles, and bones. Your rheumatologist in OKC treats rheumatoid arthritis (RA), chronic back pain, osteoarthritis, tendonitis, gout, lupus, psoriatic arthritis, and related conditions.

Our rheumatologists in OKC at Oklahoma Pain Treatment are trained to prepare a treatment plan for you individually. You will first visit. It may take an hour or more for the initial consultation, but it will be worth the time. Since RA is a long-lasting condition, this physician will be seen in a routine basis.

Questions a Rheumatologist Asks

One of the first questions that the doctor will be asking will be, “What caused you to decide to see me?”

Then prepare yourself for many questions, such as:

What are the symptoms?

How often do you feel pain: all the time, daily, weekly or in specific instances?

What makes you feel better? Is it exercise or medicine or rest?

What makes the pain worse? Is it less activity, lack of sleep, stress or certain foods?

What causes you pain? Sitting for a long time, walking, bending or anything else?

Which is your most painful body part?

How severe is the pain?

Which word is suited the best for your pain? Sharp, dull, aching, cramping, throbbing, radiating, burning or stabbing?

Does the pain make you feel upset, tired or sick?

Does the pain deprive you of shopping, gardening, intimacy or other regular activities?

Are there any other symptoms apart from pain like dry mouth, swelling, itching, infections or fever?

What to Expect during Appointment

Be ready for a talk and examination. Your rheumatologist will ask a lot of important questions about your symptoms. Some new patients are surprised by how much will be covered in their first visit! There may even seem to be some questions unrelated to your symptoms, but rheumatologists are just like detectives.

Your rheumatologist also conducts an extensive examination of your body, your heart and lungs, including all your joints. Blood and urine samples and imaging, such as X-rays, MRIs or ultrasounds can be asked for new patients after a physical examination.

During your appointment, it is essential to ask questions. You may have many questions to answer, but it is also your appointment. Talk up, if you’re curious, worried or confused! All new patients are encouraged to understand their diagnoses by rheumatologists, to ask about follow-ups and to clarify any work or activity constraints. It is also helpful for some patients to take notes during the appointment.

Come to Oklahoma Pain Treatment for rheumatologists in OKC if you are suffering from chronic pain. Make your appointment today with us for pain management and recovery.