Additional testing might be required if the patient experiences sudden worsening of their symptoms, has unexplained joint pain and swelling, or if their muscle and joint pains do not go away as you would anticipate.

A patient should see a rheumatologist if they experience recurrent flare-ups of joint pain, swelling, fever, or skin rash. A rheumatologist visit can result in an early diagnosis and assist your patient in preventing organ and joint damage that will last a lifetime.

If you'd like a rheumatologist to create a specialized treatment plan for your patient following a thorough medical history take-down, physical examination, and evaluation of lab test outcomes.

A patient can be referred to a rheumatologist for an assessment if they experience frequent gout attacks despite taking medication or if you, as their primary care provider, are concerned about an underlying rheumatic condition.