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.
Menopause and Rheumatic Disease: How Hormonal Change Can Affect Joints, Symptoms and Treatment
Menopause can affect joints, muscles, sleep, fatigue, bone health and cardiovascular risk. For women with rheumatic disease, this can make it difficult to know whether symptoms are hormonal, mechanical or due to an inflammatory flare.
Joint Stiffness and Swelling: When to Suspect Inflammatory Arthritis
Joint swelling, stiffness and morning symptoms can be early signs of inflammatory arthritis. This article explains when joint symptoms should be assessed and how early treatment can protect long-term joint health.
Fatigue in Rheumatic Disease: Why It Happens and What Actually Helps
Fatigue is common in rheumatic disease. Learn why it happens, why blood tests may be normal, and what practical strategies can help improve energy.
Steroids Explained: Benefits, Risks and How They Are Used Safely in Rheumatology
A clear, patient-focused guide to steroid treatment in rheumatology, including benefits, risks, side effects, tapering, sick-day rules and long-term safety.
DMARDs Explained: Methotrexate, Sulfasalazine, Hydroxychloroquine, Mycophenolate and Leflunomide
A patient guide to DMARDs including methotrexate, sulfasalazine, hydroxychloroquine, mycophenolate and leflunomide — uses, safety and monitoring.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Explained: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune inflammatory joint disease. Learn about symptoms, RF and anti-CCP antibodies, diagnosis, and modern treatments.
When joint pain is more than ‘wear and tear’
A patient story of joint pain and swelling that wasn’t just ‘wear and tear’ - cardinal symptoms and signs of inflammatory joint disease and when to seek a specialist opinion.
Living with Rheumatoid Arthritis: One Patient’s Journey
When you are living with pain every day, even the simplest tasks can feel overwhelming. Read about the experience of one patient with new rheumatoid arthritis who saw Dr Singh for diagnosis and ongoing care.