Rheumatology Insights
Written by Dr Animesh Singh, Consultant Rheumatologist in London, these articles provide patient-friendly explanations of joint pain, inflammatory arthritis, gout, osteoporosis, autoimmune disease, vasculitis, blood tests and rheumatology treatments. They also include selected clinical insights and patient experiences to help explain how rheumatic conditions are assessed and managed.
Please note, these posts are for general information only and do not constitute medical advice. Dr Singh would encourage you to speak to your healthcare professional to be assessed and managed for your specific symptoms.
What Does a Second Opinion in Rheumatology Actually Add?
When is a second opinion in rheumatology worthwhile? A consultant rheumatologist explains what another expert review can add, from diagnosis and treatment clarity to reassurance and future planning.
Inflammation: What Rheumatologists Mean — and Why It Is Not Always the Same as What Patients Mean
Patients often use “inflammation” to describe pain, stiffness or fatigue. In rheumatology, the term has a more specific meaning. Here is why the difference matters.
Could It Be Lupus? Symptoms, Blood Tests and When to Seek Specialist Advice
Worried about lupus (SLE)? Learn the key symptoms, how lupus is diagnosed, which blood tests and scans are used, and when specialist assessment is important.
When Tests Create More Questions Than Answers
Blood tests and scans are most meaningful when interpreted in the context of symptoms and clinical assessment.
Does Fatigue Always Mean Autoimmune or Rheumatic Disease?
Does persistent fatigue mean autoimmune or inflammatory disease? Learn when fatigue is concerning, and how it should be assessed.
Blood Tests in Rheumatology: What Do CRP, ESR, ANA and Rheumatoid Factor Really Mean?
What do CRP, ESR, ANA and rheumatoid factor really mean? Learn how symptoms, clinical signs and targeted tests lead to accurate diagnosis.
Raynaud’s and Chilblains: Understanding the Causes — and When to Look Deeper
A patient-friendly guide to Raynaud’s phenomenon and chilblains, including secondary causes, COVID toes, supplements, and when specialist assessment is needed.