What is a Rheumatologist?

What is a Rheumatologist?

Rheumatology is the study, diagnosis, and treatment of more than 100 rheumatic diseases and related conditions. A Rheumatologist is most often an internal medicine physician who has completed an additional two to three years of specialized training in the field of Rheumatology.

What type of diseases does a Rheumatologist treat?

There are more than 100 types of rheumatic conditions treated by Rheumatologist. We have listed the top 10 most common conditions treated at The Arthritis & Infusion Center.

• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Psoriatic Arthritis
• Gout
• Fibromyalgia
• Lupus
• Osteoporosis
• Osteoarthritis
• Sjogrens Syndrome
• Polymyalgia Rheumatica
• Raynauds

When should I visit a Rheumatologist?

You are your best advocate for your healthcare. Listen to your body. Dr. Hulon E. Crayton wants you to know that pain is not normal, and he can help.

What information should I provide to a Rheumatologist?

To get the most from your appointment, first, take inventory of your signs and symptoms. Make a list and keep it with you so you can keep a running record of your symptoms.

Second, take your medicine bottles with you to your visit. It is important that your Rheumatologist knows exactly what you are taking, how much, and why.

Lastly, talk to your Rheumatologist. Open up to him/her. Tell your story. Don't hold back details, as it is often in the details that the discovery is made.

It is important to remember that Rheumatology is a wide specialty that often crosses over  many specialties. Establishing a comfortable and reliable relationship with your Rheumatologist is important. The team at The Arthritis & Infusion Center is here for you, ready to hear your story, and ready to help.

5 FRACTURE FACTS to KNOW regarding OSTEOPOROSIS!

At the Arthritis & Infusion Center, we always like to keep our patients informed regarding the most current information on Rheumatologic conditions.  One such disorder is Osteoporosis, a debilitating ailment that causes fracturing of the bones. 

October 20^th is “World Osteoporosis Day”, and the International Osteoporosis Foundation has provided several warnings for you to consider:

• Each year, millions of (usually older) adults will suffer a devastating hip fracture caused by a simple fall.  Millions more will suffer fractures of the wrist, shoulder, pelvis, or spine.  These fractures are no accident!  It is likely the underlying cause is Osteoporosis!

• If you are 50 years or older and have had a fracture, you should ask Dr. Hulon Crayton to do a full clinical assessment, which will include a bone mineral density test; and a fracture risk assessment with the online FRAX calculator.

• Your first fracture is a warning sign!  If you have experienced such a break, it should have resulted in an immediate screening and, if indicated, the implementation of a plan to manage and treat your osteoporosis.

• Over 80% of fracture patients are never offered screenings and/or treatment for Osteoporosis within the hospital setting, despite the fact that there are effective medications that can reduce fracture risks by as much as 30-70%.

 

Why wait for an accident to happen?  At The Arthritis & Infusion Center, we have several screening technologies that could give you a “preview” regarding your specific condition, before you experience a fracture.

As Dr. Crayton always advises – “Pain is not normal.  We can help.”  Once you’ve read the information above, don’t you think it’s time you considered your risks for Osteoporosis?  Don’t wait for a fracture to occur!  Take preventative measures by having a full clinical assessment of your tendency for Osteoporosis by calling The Arthritis & Infusion Center at 850-873-6748.

My Journey with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

By:  Michelle Harrison 

I relocated from Atlanta to Bay County in late 2010, because I had seen every Rheumatologist in Atlanta, as well as the surrounding areas, without getting any results. One of my children, which we adopted, has a multitude of special needs, and requires my constant attention and care. However, RA limited my ability to not only take care of myself, but I couldn’t care for my children either. 

After researching physicians outside of Georgia to, hopefully, find someone who would listen to me and help me become an active participant in my life, I found Dr. Hulon Crayton. In addition to his medical skill, I was impressed by the fact that he was involved in numerous community events; he was a family man; and, many people commented on his compassionate care. I placed a call to “interview” Dr. Crayton, and then I flew in to Panama City to meet him. He was amazed at the multiple files I brought with me of tests, blood work, scans, and reports from the various doctors who had not been able to help me – and thus, my journey began. From that point on, every month, I’d get on a plane bound for Panama City and Dr.Crayton. I had faith and determination, and combined with his efforts, I knew we’d be a good team to help me improve and begin living again. In a very short period of time, I was able to give up my wheelchair and the other devices I had once depended on for daily use.

 

I became such a believer in Dr. Crayton’s expertise, I packed up my family and moved here! Coming to a new city without friends or family was daunting for us, but I knew it was the right decision for our entire family.

My family and I are profoundly grateful for Dr. Crayton and his staff. I do not know where I would be today, or what condition I would be in (physically and emotionally) if it had not been for Dr. Crayton’s professional care. I used to lie in bed and envision a miracle cure. Today, that miracle has a face and name: Dr. Hulon Crayton – and I’m blessed to be his patient.  

Arthritis Sufferers: Five Tips to Survive the Winter

The weather in northwest Florida rarely gets frigid during the winter months, but Arthritis sufferers are more susceptible to any changes in temperatures. At The Arthritis & Infusion Center, we are used to providing our patients with guidelines in order to enhance their quality of life. Here are five things to remember as we move into the fall/winter months:

1. Maintain a healthy diet:  Everyone needs to have a healthy diet, but people who suffer from Arthritis must be even more vigilant. Oily fish, and the usual fruits, grains, and vegetables should be the first items on your plate … but 
2. Portion control is also an issue for many, because being overweight can aggravate Arthritis symptoms and cause your joints to ache. 
3. Ask Dr. Crayton if you should be taking dietary supplements. In addition to eating correctly, there are dietary supplements, specific to Arthritis, which may be recommended depending on your condition. And, as with any other healthy diet, drinking adequate amounts of water is important in flushing your system and preventing you from becoming dehydrated. 
4. Keep your joints covered and warm. It should go without saying (and you’ve probably already figured this out for yourself), keeping your joints warm is key to lessening your pain. Keep blankets and appropriate, loose-fitting clothes handy to layer when the temperatures drop. 
5. Exercise and Rest. Isn’t that what your mother always told you? Specialized work-out routines can help you shed pounds, which reduce the stress on your joints. But equally as important is getting adequate sleep. If your joints are sore, rest will be difficult to accomplish. Low impact exercise like cycling or swimming are best for Arthritis sufferers.

 

As you can see, there is no “magic bullet” or unusual regime to follow. It’s all common sense!  Since Arthritis may be hereditary, it is even more important to do everything you can to maintain a healthy lifestyle. But remember:  We always remind our patients – “Pain is not normal. Let us help!” Call for a consult today!

Know Your Numbers: Signs and Symptoms of Low Testosterone

Dr. Hulon E. Crayton wants men to "know your numbers". It is important to know testosterone levels as men age.  However, it is also important to note that "Low T"  does not strictly apply to aging men. Low T can affect men in their 20's and 30's. In this video blog, Dr. Crayton explains warning signs of low testosterone. 

Signs and Symptoms of Low Testosterone:                                              

• Loss of sexual desire                                                            
• Fatigue
• Loss of muscle strength
• Loss of muscle endurance
• Fibromyalgia symptoms
• Osteoporosis

The diagnosis of low testosterone is not disastrous. There are simple ways to restore healthy levels. It is important to remember that a Bone Density Study is necessary to detect Osteoporosis, or the early signs of Osteoporosis, with men diagnosed with low testosterone.

Remember, Pain is Not Normal! The team at The Arthritis & Infusion Center is here to help. Call today for an appointment.

What Is Infusion Therapy?

Infusion /in·fu·sion/ (in-fu´zhun): The therapeutic introduction of fluid other than blood into a vein.  The team at The Arthritis & Infusion Center are the region's leading experts in Infusion Therapy.  Dr. Crayton is often asked why infusion therapy is chosen over more traditional methods. In this video blog, Dr. Crayton will explain why certain medications are developed specifically to be administered by infusion, as well as the benefits of Infusion Therapy.

 

Remember, pain is not normal! We can help. Call the team at The Arthritis & Infusion Center today to make an appointment with the area's leading expert in Rheumatology.

21st Century Medicine: IV Therapy vs. Pills

Infusion Therapy is an exciting and rapidly evolving development in the specialty of Rheumatology. The scientific advancements in the 21^st Century are producing therapies that directly target the cells that affect inflammation, and therefore, pain. Although Infusion Therapy is the most advanced therapy available, there are patients that may be fearful when presented with this option. The Arthritis & Infusion Center wants you to know that we are here for you and understand your questions. We have put together a few key points to consider when given the option between Oral Therapy and Infusion Therapy. 

Advantages of Infusion Therapy over traditional Oral Therapy:

1.   Absorption 

Infusion therapy delivers medication directly into the blood stream. Bypassing the gastrointestinal tract eliminates issues like difficulty swallowing, gastric or tracheal ulcers, difficulty sitting in the upright position, and gastric upset.

2.   Compliance 

Remembering to take medications that are taken as infrequently as once per week or once per month can be an inconvenience and sometimes forgotten. Certain Infusion Therapies for Osteoporosis are given once per year.

3.   Direct Physician Involvement 

The Infusion Center at The Arthritis & Infusion Center is located within the office of Dr. Hulon E. Crayton, therefore, giving the patient direct access to their doctor with questions or concerns. By having direct physician access, patients are more likely to comply with their therapy, as well as, identify benchmarks in their treatment process.

4.   Advanced Technology 

Infusion Therapy is literally the latest developments for the treatments associated with Rheumatology. Leaps and bounds are being made in the specialty of Rheumatology. Treatments which, in the past, were limited to a few oral prescription treatments that were often harsh on the liver and gastrointestinal tract. Today, there are more than a dozen Infusion Therapy options that target the very cells that control inflammation.

5.   Cost 

Infusion Therapy can be expensive. However, because these therapies are the newest to the market, there are often patient-assistance programs to help offset the cost. Older, oral therapies often are offered generically, and while generics may be less expensive than the name brand, there are no patient-assistance programs available.

It is important to consider all of the available options when it comes to choosing your medication therapy along with your physician. Ask questions, write down the answers, and do research.  Remember, Pain is not normal, we can help!