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What a rheumatologist does

A rheumatologist is a physician who diagnoses and treats arthritis and autoimmune conditions that affect joints, muscles, bones and sometimes organs. After MBBS and MD/DNB in medicine, training continues in a DM or DNB in Rheumatology. They treat with medicines and do not usually operate; orthopaedic surgeons handle joint replacement when needed.

Joint pain is common, but not all arthritis is the same. Osteoarthritis comes from wear and tear, while inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus are caused by the immune system and respond best to early specialist treatment.

When to see a rheumatologist

• Joint pain with swelling and morning stiffness lasting more than 30–60 minutes.
• Pain in several small joints of the hands or feet on both sides.
• Unexplained fever, rash, hair loss or mouth ulcers with joint pain.
• A sudden red, hot, very painful joint, such as the big toe — possible gout.
• Dry eyes and mouth, or fingers turning white in the cold.
• Persistent back pain and stiffness in young adults that improves with exercise.

Conditions treated

Rheumatoid arthritis, lupus (SLE), ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, gout, Sjögren's syndrome, scleroderma, vasculitis, myositis, juvenile arthritis, fibromyalgia and osteoporosis.

Tests

Common blood tests are ESR, CRP, rheumatoid factor, anti-CCP, ANA, anti-dsDNA, uric acid, HLA-B27 and complement C3/C4, with X-rays, ultrasound or MRI of joints. Treatment commonly uses disease-modifying drugs such as methotrexate, and in some cases biologic medicines; early treatment prevents joint damage.

Fees and choosing

Rheumatologist fees commonly range from about ₹700 to ₹2,000 and may vary; these specialists are fewer, so waiting times can be longer. Check DM/DNB Rheumatology qualification and experience with your condition. Compare rheumatologists and book on Lab Dekho.

Trusted References

This guide is original content informed by recognised medical and public-health sources. For further reading:

• NABH – hospital accreditation standards
• NABL – laboratory accreditation
• Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY
• Ministry of Health & Family Welfare
• Mayo Clinic – Patient care & health information
• Cleveland Clinic – Health Library
• WebMD – Health A–Z

Disclaimer: This guide is for general information and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. Costs and fees are approximate and vary by provider. Institution names are given for orientation only; check current services and timings directly. In an emergency, call 108 or 112.