Rheumatology

What is Rheumatology and Which Diseases Does It Treat?

Rheumatology is the branch of medicine that studies the group of diseases generally known as inflammatory rheumatism, connective tissue diseases, blood vessel inflammation (vasculitis), and genetically inherited autoinflammatory syndromes. These diseases can affect not only the joints but also internal organs such as the skin, eyes, kidneys, lungs, and heart. For those searching for a rheumatology department in Istanbul, our hospital is a reliable center. The main diseases successfully diagnosed and treated in our department include:

Rheumatoid Arthritis (Inflammatory Joint Rheumatism)

This typically begins with symmetrical (bilateral) swelling, pain, and morning stiffness in the wrists, ankles, and small joints. Early initiation of rheumatoid arthritis treatment is critical to prevent permanent deformities that may occur in the joints and to preserve hand dexterity.

Ankylosing Spondylitis (Spinal Rheumatism)

This is a type of chronic inflammatory rheumatism that primarily affects the spine and pelvic joints. The most typical symptom is lower back pain that starts at a young age, worsens with rest, and improves with movement. For our patients seeking ankylosing spondylitis treatment in Istanbul, our department offers a multidisciplinary approach aimed at preserving the patient's mobility.

FMF (Familial Mediterranean Fever)

This genetically inherited disease is characterized by recurrent attacks of fever, abdominal pain, chest pain, and joint swelling. Regular FMF disease treatment and follow-up are essential to prevent attacks and stop the buildup of a protein called amyloid in the kidneys.

Behçet's Disease

This is a type of blood vessel inflammation (vasculitis) that presents with recurrent mouth and genital ulcers, eye inflammation (uveitis), and skin manifestations. The treatment for this disease, which is common in our region, is personalized based on the affected organ.

Gout (Crystal Arthritis)

This occurs when uric acid levels in the blood rise and these crystals accumulate in the joints (most commonly the big toe), causing attacks of sudden, severe pain, redness, and swelling. Attacks are successfully controlled with dietary adjustments and medication.

When Should You Visit the Rheumatology Department?

Rheumatic diseases can progress silently in their early stages. Consulting a specialist at the right time is the first step in stopping the progression of the disease. If you experience one or more of the following symptoms, you should consult our expert physicians without delay:

• Feeling stiffness and rigidity in your joints lasting longer than half an hour when you wake up in the morning,
• Unexplained swelling, heat, redness, and pain in your joints,
• Lower back or back pain that wakes you up from sleep, especially at night, and eases with movement,
• Experiencing recurrent attacks of fever and abdominal pain with no known cause,
• Frequent painful ulcers in the mouth or genital area,
• Developing abnormal skin rashes when exposed to the sun,
• Observing whitening and bruising at your fingertips in cold weather.

Diagnostic Methods

An accurate diagnosis is of great importance for proper treatment planning in rheumatic diseases. In our department, the most up-to-date diagnostic methods are used following the patient's detailed medical history and physical examination. Advanced laboratory tests are used to analyze blood inflammation levels, rheumatoid factor (RF), anti-CCP, and various autoantibodies. Additionally, genetic tests can be applied for hereditary diseases.

As imaging methods; direct X-rays, ultrasonography, Computed Tomography (CT), and Magnetic Resonance (MRI) imaging technologies are utilized to detect inflammation or damage in joints and organs. All these tests are concluded quickly thanks to our hospital's well-equipped infrastructure.

Treatment Methods and Applications

The main goal in the treatment of rheumatic diseases is to suppress inflammation, relieve pain, prevent organ or joint damage, and improve the patient's quality of life. Early intervention is essential for effective inflammatory rheumatism treatment. At the BHT CLINIC Rheumatology Department, in addition to classical conventional drug therapies, new-generation targeted biological therapies that directly affect the disease mechanism are also successfully applied.

The treatment plan is determined on a completely personalized basis according to the patient's age, the severity of the disease, and other accompanying health issues. When necessary, a holistic treatment approach is provided in collaboration with other specialties such as physical therapy and rehabilitation, orthopedics, and ophthalmology.

Technology and Team

Our hospital holds international JCI accreditation and features an infrastructure that prioritizes patient safety and comfort. In our rheumatology clinic, our experienced specialist physicians manage the diagnosis and treatment processes by following the most current medical literature. Thanks to our advanced technology laboratory and radiology units, even the most complex rheumatic diseases can be diagnosed quickly and accurately.

With our multidisciplinary work approach, we work meticulously in coordination with other medical units and specialist physicians within our hospital to help you regain your health.

Appointment and Examination Process

Rheumatic diseases require long-term follow-up. The trust-based communication you establish with your doctor during this process directly affects the success of the treatment. You can take action immediately to avoid delaying your complaints and missing the opportunity for early diagnosis.

For a detailed evaluation and personalized treatment planning, you can book an appointment through our BHT CLINIC Istanbul Tema Hospital website or contact us via our 24/7 call center at 0850 811 34 00. We are by your side to help you step into healthy and pain-free days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can inflammatory rheumatism be completely cured?

Inflammatory rheumatic diseases are generally chronic, meaning they may not disappear completely. However, with current and targeted treatments, the disease can be controlled, complaints can be relieved, and joint damage can be prevented, allowing for a normal, active life.

Does rheumatism show up in a blood test?

Blood tests provide important clues in the diagnosis of many rheumatic diseases. However, a blood test alone is not sufficient; a definitive diagnosis is made by evaluating the patient's complaints, examination findings, and, if necessary, imaging methods together. Sometimes, a diagnosis of rheumatism can be made even if blood tests are normal.

Is FMF (Familial Mediterranean Fever) contagious?

No, FMF is a genetically inherited disease and is not transmitted from person to person. It is passed down through families and manifests itself with recurrent attacks of fever and abdominal pain. With proper treatment, attacks can be largely prevented.

How should nutrition be for rheumatic diseases?

Although there is no single rheumatism diet, a Mediterranean-style diet, maintaining an ideal weight, and avoiding highly processed foods are generally recommended. In specific conditions like gout, your doctor will ask you to follow a special low-purine diet.