Rheumatology in Worthing

Welcome to Our Rheumatology Services

At Goring Hall Hospital, we understand the impact that rheumatological conditions can have on your quality of life. Our Rheumatology Services are designed to provide comprehensive care, from diagnosis to personalized treatment plans. Here's why you should choose us:

• Expert Rheumatologist: Trust in the expertise of our board-certified rheumatologists, specializing in the diagnosis and management of a wide range of rheumatological conditions, including arthritis, lupus, and autoimmune disorders.
• Fast Access to Diagnostics: Benefit from advanced diagnostic technologies that enable accurate assessments of your rheumatological health. Our state-of-the-art facilities ensure precise diagnoses, allowing for timely and effective treatment planning.
• Comprehensive Treatment Plans: Receive personalized treatment plans designed to manage and improve your rheumatological health. Our holistic approach considers both medical and lifestyle factors to enhance your overall well-being.
• Infusion Therapy Services: For conditions requiring infusion therapy, our dedicated facilities and experienced staff provide a comfortable and supportive environment for your treatment.
• Lifestyle and Pain Management: Our approach includes strategies for pain management, lifestyle modifications, and ongoing support to help you manage the impact of rheumatological conditions on your daily life.
• Patient Education: Empower yourself with knowledge through educational resources and ongoing support. We believe in equipping you with the tools to actively manage your rheumatological health.
• Collaborative Care Team: Benefit from a collaborative care team that includes rheumatologists, nurses, physical therapists, and support staff, all working together to optimize your rheumatological health.
• Efficient and Timely Care: Experience efficient and timely healthcare services, with a focus on minimizing waiting times and providing prompt access to consultations, diagnostics, and treatments.

For comprehensive and compassionate Rheumatology Services, choose Goring Hall Hospital. Your journey to improved rheumatological health begins here. Schedule a consultation with our expert rheumatologists today.

Common rheumatology symptoms include:.

• Joint Pain: Persistent pain or discomfort in one or more joints, often worsening with movement.
• Joint Stiffness: Difficulty moving joints, especially after periods of inactivity, commonly experienced in the morning.
• Swelling: Visible swelling or puffiness around affected joints, a common sign of inflammation.
• Warmth and Redness: Increased temperature and redness around affected joints, indicating inflammation.
• Fatigue: Persistent fatigue or feeling excessively tired, which can be associated with inflammatory rheumatological conditions.
• Morning Stiffness: Stiffness in the joints, particularly in the morning or after periods of rest.
• Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty moving joints through their full range of motion due to pain or stiffness.
• Fever: Low-grade fever, especially in autoimmune conditions where the immune system attacks the body's own tissues.
• Numbness and Tingling: Sensations of numbness, tingling, or pins and needles, which may be associated with nerve involvement in certain rheumatological disorders.
• Skin Changes: Skin rashes, ulcers, or other changes in skin texture, which can be symptoms of specific rheumatological conditions like lupus or dermatomyositis.
• Eye Problems: Inflammation in the eyes, causing redness, pain, or sensitivity to light in conditions like uveitis.

If you are experiencing persistent or concerning symptoms related to your joints, connective tissues, or overall well-being, it's important to consult with a rheumatologist for a thorough evaluation and proper diagnosis. Early detection and management can significantly improve outcomes for rheumatological conditions.

The treatment of rheumatology symptoms depends on the underlying condition causing the symptoms. However, common approaches to managing rheumatological symptoms may include:

• Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation. Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) to slow or modify the course of autoimmune conditions. Corticosteroids for short-term relief of severe symptoms or as a bridge therapy.
• Pain Management: Analgesics or pain relievers to manage pain symptoms.
  Physical therapy to improve joint function and reduce pain.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Regular exercise to maintain joint flexibility and overall health. Weight management to reduce stress on joints. Assistive devices or orthotics to support joint function.
• Dietary Changes: Dietary modifications, such as anti-inflammatory diets, may be recommended for certain conditions.
• Immunosuppressive Therapy: For autoimmune conditions, immunosuppressive medications may be prescribed to modulate the immune system.
• Biologic Therapies: Biologic drugs that target specific components of the immune system to manage autoimmune conditions.
• Infusion Therapy: For some conditions, infusion therapy may be used to administer medications intravenously.
• Counseling and Support: Emotional and psychological support, including counseling or support groups, may be beneficial in managing the impact of chronic rheumatological conditions.
• Surgery: In severe cases or when joint damage is extensive, surgical interventions such as joint replacement surgery may be considered.

It's important to note that the management of rheumatology symptoms is highly individualised. The choice of treatment depends on the specific diagnosis, the severity of symptoms, and the overall health of the individual. A rheumatologist will work closely with the patient to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to address their unique needs and improve their quality of life. Regular follow-up visits are often recommended to monitor progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed.

From the first moment you come to Goring Hall Hospital, you will be greeted by our friendly welcoming team. Our aim is to make the process as speedy, convenient and as reassuring as possible.

Referral

Your journey will start with a referral. We accept referrals from GPs, healthcare professionals or health insurance providers, as well as from private patients who book a consultation directly.
We aim to arrange a private consultation for you within a week referral or first contact, at a time that is convenient for you.
During a rheumatology initial consultation, several key steps are typically involved:

• Medical History Review: The rheumatologist will review your complete medical history, including any pre-existing conditions, medications, and relevant family medical history. 
• Symptom Assessment: A detailed discussion about your symptoms, including joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and any other relevant concerns. Providing information on the onset, duration, and progression of symptoms is crucial.
• Physical Examination: A comprehensive physical examination focused on the musculoskeletal system. The rheumatologist will assess joint function, swelling, tenderness, and other relevant signs. 
• Diagnostic Tests: Based on the initial assessment, the rheumatologist may order diagnostic tests, such as blood tests, imaging studies (X-rays, MRI, ultrasound), or joint fluid analysis, to aid in the diagnosis.
• Discussion of Findings: The rheumatologist will discuss the results of the examination and tests with you. If a diagnosis is reached, they will explain the condition, its implications, and potential treatment options.
• Treatment Plan: A personalized treatment plan will be developed, considering the specific nature of your rheumatological condition. This may involve medications, lifestyle modifications, or other interventions, depending on the diagnosis.
• Education and Counselling: You will receive information and education about your rheumatological condition, including management strategies, potential triggers, and ways to optimize your health.
  Follow-up Plan: A plan for follow-up visits or additional tests may be discussed, ensuring ongoing monitoring and adjustment of your treatment plan as needed.
• Symptom Assessment: A detailed discussion about your symptoms, including joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and any other relevant concerns. Providing information on the onset, duration, and progression of symptoms is crucial.

The initial consultation is an essential step in understanding your rheumatological health and developing a tailored approach to address your concerns. It provides an opportunity for open communication with the rheumatologist, allowing you to actively participate in your care. If you're experiencing symptoms suggestive of rheumatological conditions, seeking a consultation with a rheumatologist is crucial for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Choose Goring Hall Hospital for unparalleled medical care, where expertise meets compassion. Our commitment to excellence is evident in:

• Skilled Professionals: Experience top-tier healthcare with our team of skilled and dedicated medical professionals, including board-certified specialists and compassionate support staff.
• Fast Access: In site diagnostic and imaging suite offering MRI, CT, X-Ray and Ulrasound.
• Patient-Centric Approach: Your well-being is our priority. We tailor our services to meet your unique needs, fostering a patient-centric environment focused on comfort, understanding, and effective communication.
• Comprehensive Services: From diagnostics to surgery and post-operative care, we offer a comprehensive range of medical services, ensuring continuity and convenience for our patients.
• Proven Track Record: Trust in a hospital with a proven track record of successful outcomes and patient satisfaction. We pride ourselves on delivering results that matter.
• Delicious, nutritious meals throughout your hospital stay that are prepared by our chefs and can be modified to meet your dietary requirements, and  
• Free car parking and fast public transport links to our hospital from Horsham, Worthing, Chichester, Pulborough, West Sussex and beyond.

Choose us for a healthcare experience that combines expertise, top-quality service, and a genuine commitment to your health and recovery.