When should you consult a rheumatologist?

Common Symptoms to Be Aware Of

Common symptoms of systemic autoimmune and rheumatological conditions include:

• Pain, stiffness, or swelling in multiple joints, including the low back and neck.

• Extreme, unexplained fatigue.

• Generalized, unexplained weakness.

• Skin rashes or lesions.

• Total or patchy hair loss.

• Chest pains.

• Unexplained abdominal pains.

• Shortness of breath.

• Unexplained fever.

• Unexplained weight loss.

• Anemia.

• Low platelet count or white blood cell count.

• Abnormal autoantibodies on blood tests.

• Spontaneous bruises without trauma.

• Numbness in hands, feet, or any part of the body.

• Recurrent spontaneous abortions.

• Recurrent blood clots in arteries or veins.

• Non-healing sores and skin ulcers.

• Cold, purplish, or pale hands and feet.

• Recurrent sinus infections.

• Recurrent eye inflammation.

• Unexplained blood in the urine.

Taking Action

You may be referred by your doctor to see a rheumatologist or autoimmune specialist if you experience these symptoms.