Serving Nassau County, Long Island & Queens

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the joints. Unlike osteoarthritis, which is related to wear and tear, rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints.

This can lead to:

• Joint pain and swelling
• Morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes
• Fatigue
• Symmetrical joint involvement (both hands, both wrists, etc.)
• Progressive joint damage if untreated

Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to prevent long-term joint damage.

How Is Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnosed?

Diagnosis may include:

• Detailed medical history and physical examination
• Blood tests (including rheumatoid factor and anti-CCP antibodies)
• Inflammatory markers
• Imaging such as X-ray or ultrasound

Early evaluation is important if you are experiencing persistent joint swelling or prolonged morning stiffness.

Treatment Options for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Modern therapies have significantly improved outcomes for patients with RA. Treatment may include:

• Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs)
• Biologic therapies
• Targeted oral medications
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Steroid injections when appropriate

Our goal is to reduce inflammation, relieve symptoms, prevent joint damage, and maintain quality of life.

In-Office Infusion Therapy

For patients requiring biologic infusions, we offer on-site infusion therapy in our private infusion suite. This allows for coordinated, convenient care without the need to travel to a hospital infusion center.

When Should You See a Rheumatologist?

You should seek evaluation if you experience:

• Joint swelling lasting more than six weeks
• Persistent morning stiffness
• Unexplained fatigue with joint pain
• Family history of autoimmune disease

Early treatment significantly improves long-term outcomes.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition, similar to other inflammatory diseases such as lupus and vasculitis.

Expert Rheumatoid Arthritis Care

At Manhasset Rheumatology, we provide comprehensive evaluation and treatment for patients with rheumatoid arthritis throughout Nassau County, Long Island, and Queens.

As a small, two-physician private practice, we are often able to offer appointments sooner than many larger rheumatology offices. Patients receive direct, one-on-one care from their board-certified rheumatologist at every visit.

Both physicians are consultants at St. Francis Hospital and participate in clinical research and trials, ensuring access to the latest treatment advances.

Schedule a Consultation

If you are experiencing symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, we encourage you to schedule an evaluation.

📞 516-365-1700
📧 manhassetrheum@gmail.com

We serve patients throughout Manhasset, Nassau County, Long Island, and Queens.