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.
Is It Worth Having a Private Rheumatology Video Consultation?
Can a rheumatologist assess you properly by video? A consultant rheumatologist explains when private video consultations work well, how to prepare, when face-to-face is better, and how urgent appointments may sometimes be arranged.
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.
How to Choose the Right Rheumatologist in the UK
A patient guide to choosing a rheumatology specialist in the UK — NHS vs private care, tertiary centre experience and long-term treatment planning.
NHS and Private Care: Different Settings, Shared Principles
A clear explanation of NHS and private rheumatology care, including benefits, limitations, prescribing, biologic treatments, and how patients can move safely between both systems.
Joining the Dots Through Whole-Person Clinical Assessment
A patient who had been bedbound for a month shared how repeated narrow assessments failed to find answers — until a whole-person clinical review revealed the underlying pattern and led to an effective treatment plan. This blog explores why joining the dots is essential when symptoms don’t fit neatly into a single box.
When the Diagnosis Isn’t Obvious: Investigating Complex Inflammatory Illness
Dr Singh highlights a family’s experience regarding the challenges of diagnosing and managing complex undifferentiated inflammatory disease in their relative.
Is It Worth Paying for a Private Rheumatology Appointment?
When symptoms persist and you are struggling to get help, many people start to wonder whether it’s worth booking a private consultation. The idea of “going private” can sound expensive or unnecessary — but in rheumatology, one focused assessment can often make all the difference. In this article, Dr Singh highlights how one appointment gave a patient an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
From Mystery to Diagnosis: How the Right Questions Changed Everything
Sometimes patients come to me after seeing several doctors but still don’t have an answer. Learn how one patient was able to receive a rapid and accurate diagnosis after a focused, expert assessment by Dr Singh.