Frequently Asked Questions

A rheumatologist is a doctor in medicine or paediatrics who has received specialised training in the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disease and autoimmune conditions commonly also called rheumatic diseases.

A disease or condition that lasts more than three months or longer and may get worse over time.
Most of the Rheumatologic conditions are chronic in nature causing organ complications, deformity and disability.
Early diagnosis, proper treatment and regular follow up is required to keep the disease under control.

Yes, rheumatic diseases are chronic. Many rheumatic diseases are life long, though there are periods of remission when the patient feels better in absence of symptoms.

When our own body immune system attacks different parts of the body causing inflammation in organs it is not supposed to and leading to injury of the organs.
Diseases causes by such immune dysfunction are called Autoimmune conditions.

Contrary to the common belief Rheumatological diseases can potentially affect any organ of the body.
Although, it most commonly affect the joints, muscles, and bones, causing pain, swelling, stiffness, and potentially causes joint deformities.
Rheumatologic conditions are known to affect the blood vessels, lungs, kidney, brain and other organs potentially causing deterioration of organ function, organ damage and ulcers.

You should be prepared to give a detailed medical history of all your symptoms, family history, past treatment history, ongoing medication history, referral notes, previous X-ray/MRI and blood work etc.
Since precise diagnosis of Rheumatological conditions are very complex it requires patience and follow up.

1. Medications for relief of symptoms.
2. Diagnostic tests for confirmation of Diagnostic / Monitor Progression of disease
3. Injections for Joint/Tendons (if required)
4. Referral to other Specialist as per Individual patient requirement.

Medicines prescribed by a Rheumatologist like any other medicines can have side effects. Although, the side effects cannot be predicted in advance and depends on many factors like individual sensitivity, immunity, disease progression, genetic factors and allergies etc. At Rheuma Ease, we prescribe medicines keeping in mind disease progression and after weighing risk vs benefits. All prescriptions are tailor made as per individual patient requirements and profile. Remember, even common food we eat can cause allergies.

Yes, Physio therapy helps the patient to improve the movement of the joints by removing joint stiffness and muscle strengthening. It can help reduce pain and improve joint function and overall strength.

Yes, like any other person, patients with rheumatic conditions can lead normal reproductive life. However, patients should always discuss their pregnancy plans with their rheumatologist. Optimised therapy should be started before all such pregnancy. Pregnancies with rheumatological conditions can sometimes be a high risk pregnancy, requiring regular follow-up, testing & monitoring by a Gynaecologist and a Rheumatologist.

Rheumatoid arthritis can affect all age groups and both sexes. It has higher frequency over 50 years of age. The disease is three times more common in females than males.

Yes! Unfortunately children can also suffer from many of the rheumatological conditions.

At, Rheuma Ease, our rheumatologist Dr. Divya Lala is renowned for her patient centric care and scientific approach. Most of the patients term her as the best rheumatologist in Navi Mumbai.