When Should You See a Rheumatologist?
You should consider booking an appointment with a rheumatologist—a specialist in rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases—if you experience any of the following:
- Persistent joint pain or swollen joints
- Morning stiffness
- Unexplained muscle or joint pain
- Back pain that worsens during rest or at night
- Recurrent inflammation in joints or tendons
- Suspected rheumatoid arthritis, gout, or another rheumatic disease
- Abnormal rheumatology-related laboratory test results
Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent permanent joint damage and improve your mobility and quality of life.
Rheumatologist Appointment
A rheumatologist specializes in diagnosing and treating inflammatory rheumatic diseases as well as disorders affecting the joints, muscles, and connective tissues. You can book an appointment for the evaluation of new symptoms or for the ongoing follow-up of an existing rheumatic condition.
The most common conditions treated include:
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Psoriatic arthritis
- Ankylosing spondylitis
- Gout
- Osteoporosis
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
- Sjögren’s syndrome
What Happens During a Rheumatologist Appointment?
During your appointment, the rheumatologist will review your symptoms, medical history, previous examinations, and, when necessary, laboratory test results.
Additional examinations may be performed or arranged, including:
- Laboratory tests
- Joint ultrasound examination
- X-ray or MRI examination
- Bone density measurement (DXA)
Based on the findings, an individualized treatment plan will be created, including medication and follow-up when needed.
Rheumatology Services at Sydänkeskus
Sydänkeskus rheumatologist Tapio Ahola sees patients at Sydänkeskus Helsinki. We offer prompt appointments with an experienced rheumatologist without long waiting times.
We provide expert, personalized care for patients of all ages—from the assessment of new symptoms to the long-term management and follow-up of rheumatic diseases.