General Consultation
What is a Rheumatologist?
A Rheumatologist specialises in both musculoskeletal disorders and autoimmune conditions. They diagnose and treat conditions that affect the joints, tendons, ligaments, bones, and muscles.
When do I need to see a rheumatologist?
It's normal to experience muscle and joint pain from time to time. However, if you notice pain or stiffness that does not improve within a few weeks may want to consider visiting your General Practitioner (GP). The GP will evaluate your symptoms and decide whether or not they should refer you to a rheumatologist for further evaluation.
A GP may refer you to a rheumatologist when:
- They suspect or have made a diagnosis that you have a systemic inflammatory condition
- You have symptoms of an autoimmune or musculoskeletal disorder
- You have a family history of autoimmune or musculoskeletal disorders
- Your symptoms improve after treatment but return if you stop taking medication
- Your symptoms worsen over time and or do not respond to treatment
- You develop unexpected complications, such as unexplained fever, rash, or fatigue
- You have unusual laboratory test results
What do we treat?
Dr Abrahams treats the following conditions:
- Lupus
- Systemic Sclerosis
- Fibromyalgia
- Inflammatory Myopathies
- Systemic Vasculitis
- Musculoskeletal Conditions
- Osteoarthritis
- Psoriatic Arthritis
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Gout
- Diabetes
- Hypertension
- HIV
First consultation
During your first consultation, Dr Abrahams will conduct a thorough physical examination, including all of your joints, your shoulders to your toes, your hands, as well as your heart and lungs. After the physical exam, we may be asked for blood and urine samples, as well as imaging like X-rays, MRIs or ultrasounds.
It’s important to ask questions during your appointment. You might be answering a lot of questions, but it’s your appointment too. If you are curious, concerned or even confused, don’t be afraid to speak. Dr Abrahams encourages all new patients to make sure they understand their diagnoses, and ask any follow-up questions. Some patients also find it helpful to take notes during their appointment.
Follow-up consultations
Dr Abrahams will most likely schedule a follow-up appointment to review lab work or imaging results. If you have an autoimmune or musculoskeletal disease, it’s important to visit your rheumatologist on a regular basis. Dr Abrahams will advise you on how often you need to visit him.
Diagnosis and treatment plan
Dr Abrahams may not be able to provide you with a diagnosis right away; you should be aware that many autoimmune disorders take a number of years to fully evolve. In many instances, we treat the symptoms before a diagnosis is made.
If a working diagnosis can be made, you will need to return for more visits to determine a final diagnosis and start a treatment plan to meet your needs. Treatments can include Medications, Exercise, physical therapy, or occupational therapy, lifestyle changes, or a combination of these treatments.
