Summit Rheumatology

June is Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month.💜 Worldwide, more than 55 million people live with Alzheimer's or another dementia.

Did you know?

There may be a link between between autoimmune disorders and Alzheimer's. A study from the University of Oxford found that individuals with autoimmune diseases are 20% more likely to develop dementia later on. Out of 25 autoimmune diseases studied, 18 were associated with an increased dementia risk, particularly vascular dementia.

Join the Alzheimer's Association in going purple and raising awareness this month.

Is it safe to use to***co if you have rheumatoid arthritis?🚬

No.🚭 Smoking increases your risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and can make the disease more severe.
Here's how:

1. Smoking triggers whole-body inflammation, which can lead to arthritis.

2. Cigarette smoke contains toxins that provoke immune responses, increasing inflammation.

3. Free radicals from smoking damage cells and further amplify inflammation.

4. Smoking can also produce auto-antibodies, contributing to chronic inflammation and autoimmune responses in rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
5. Additionally, gum disease from smoking may allow oral bacteria to enter the joints, worsening arthritis symptoms.

6. Smoking may cause inflammatory problems in organs such as the heart, lungs, and eyes.

For your health and arthritis management, quitting to***co use is a critical step. Talk to your rheumatologist or provider for support and resources. To learn more about to***co's impact on arthritis, check out the links below:

https://www.jrd.or.kr/journal/view.html?pn=vol&uid=1365&vmd=Full

https://www.arthritis.org/diseases/more-about/smoking-can-be-hazardous-to-joints

***couseandarthritis

For those living with arthritis, finding effective relief can be a challenging journey. Many seek alternative therapies, like copper bracelets, believed to reduce inflammation and pain. But do they really work?

Discover the facts in our latest blog!

Arthritis Myths: Copper Bracelets For Arthritis? | Summit Rheumatology Among the many alternative therapies that people explore is copper bracelets. Claims that these accessories alleviate inflammation and joint pain have been circulating since as early as the 1800s. But do copper bracelets for arthritis really help relieve symptoms? Scientific research suggests that t...

Today, we remember and honor our nation's heroes who sacrificed everything for our freedom. Happy Memorial Day💙🤍❤️

"Is gout hereditary?" is a question our team hears frequently. Gout may be influenced by genetics, not just diet. If you have a close family member with gout, you might be at higher risk. It can also stem from issues with kidney function and uric acid levels.

The good news? Proper treatment and lifestyle changes can manage gout effectively. At Summit Rheumatology's Gout Center of Excellence, we're here to help you take control of your gout.

Visit our website https://summitrheumatology.com/gout-center-of-excellence/ to learn more and get the support you need from our team of specialists!

Join Summit Rheumatology in recognizing World Autoimmune Arthritis Day!🌍

Did you know?
It's estimated that 23.5 million people worldwide are affected by autoimmune diseases!

World Autoimmune Arthritis Day was established in 2012 by the International Autoimmune Arthritis Movement (I.A.A.M.) to increase awareness of autoimmune and autoinflammatory conditions that involve arthritis. These diseases cause the immune system to attack the body’s organs, tissues, and cells, leading to inflammation and damage.

Summit Rheumatology is currently accepting new arthritis patients! To learn more or schedule an appointment with a provider, visit summitrheumatology.com or call (480) 494-2770.

When should I see a rheumatologist for symptoms of psoriatic arthritis?

Psoriatic arthritis is an autoimmune disease that may cause joint inflammation and damage when not properly treated. Learn more about the signs and symptoms of psoriatic arthritis, and when it's time to see a rheumatologist.

Do I Have Psoriatic Arthritis? Diagnosing Psoriatic Arthritis Red, flaky patches of skin, nail pitting, and joint pain are symptoms to watch for. Learn more about diagnosing psoriatic arthritis in Arizona and Oklahoma.

We love to hear about positive experiences at Summit Rheumatology. It's our goal to help you regain your health and improve your quality of life. If you are interested in scheduling an appointment with one of our rheumatology specialists, visit summitrheumatolgy.com or give us a call at (480) 494-2770.

Join Summit Rheumatology in celebrating Mother's Day and National Women's Health Week 2024!🌷This week is not only a special time to honor mothers everywhere, but also a reminder for all women to prioritize their physical, mental, and overall well-being.

This year's theme, 'Women’s Health, Whole Health: Prevention, Care, and Wellbeing,' emphasizes the importance of proactive steps for better health.

Make sure to:

1. Schedule regular checkups, including a yearly well-woman exam.

2. Stay active and exercise regularly.

3. Maintain a balanced diet for optimal nutrition.

4. Take care of your mental health and manage stress effectively.

5. Practice healthy habits every day to enhance your overall well-being.

Let's show some love to the incredible women in our lives and commit to a healthier future!🩷

Osteoporosis is a bone disease that can have serious health consequences.🦴 Here are 5 key facts you need to know:

1. Thin, Weak Bones: Osteoporosis causes bones to become thin and fragile, increasing the risk of fractures from minor falls.

2. Common Condition: It's a major public health concern, especially for those over 50, with a high risk of fractures in women and men of various ethnic groups.

3. Not a Normal Part of Aging: While some bone loss is normal with age, osteoporosis is not. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent painful broken bones and loss of height.

4. Diagnosed with BMD Test: A bone mineral density test can diagnose osteoporosis and determine the severity based on T-scores.

5. Fracture Complications: Spinal, wrist, or hip fractures from osteoporosis can lead to pain, disability, and even loss of independence. Surgery is often required for hip fractures.
If you're struggling with the effects of osteoporosis, make an appointment at Summit Rheumatology today. We can help you take control of your bone health and prevent further complications!

Managing lupus involves a variety of medications that can help control symptoms and the immune system.💜🦋

NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs):
NSAIDs like ibuprofen and celecoxib help reduce inflammation, pain, and fever.

Hydroxychloroquine:
Originally used to treat malaria, this medication helps control immune system activity and is often recommended for long-term use in managing lupus.

Corticosteroids:
These synthetic hormones treat inflammation, pain, and fever by suppressing the immune system's activity.

Immunosuppressants:
Medications like azathioprine, cyclophosphamide, and methotrexate reduce lupus symptoms by lowering immune system activity.

Summit Rheumatology works directly with lupus patients to create treatment plans tailored to their lifestyle and individual needs. To learn more about lupus treatment at Summit, visit https://summitrheumatology.com/conditions-we-treat/lupus/

Arthritis affects more than just your joints! Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can impact other parts of the body, including the skin, eyes, and lungs. The medications used to treat RA may also cause side effects that affect your overall health.

It's essential to stay aware of potential issues and work closely with your doctor to manage your treatment effectively. Early intervention can help you avoid RA-related complications and lead a healthier life.

Tophi are a common characteristic of uncontrolled gout. Tophi are stone-like deposits of monosodium urate crystals that accumulate in the soft-tissues, synovial tissues, or bones near the joints of individuals with chronic gout causing discomfort and even permanent damage.

Learn more about the intricacies of tophi, exploring what they are, their significance, and how to identify them in our latest blog!

Identifying Tophi | Summit Rheumatology While gout alone is challenging to endure, it is often accompanied by additional symptoms, notably tophi (singular: tophus). While tophi do not typically cause pain initially, they have the potential to become inflamed and swollen, leading to discomfort and permanent damage. In this blog, we will de...

Summit Rheumatology is currently accepting new patients! Our compassionate team is dedicated to providing high-quality care tailored to your unique health needs.

Give us a call at (480) 494-2770 or visit summitrheumatology.com to schedule your appointment!

Valley fever is on the rise in Arizona!

Valley fever is an infection caused by the Coccidioides fungus, which thrives in the southwestern soil of the United States.

Dive into our latest blog to understand the risks, symptoms, and preventive measures tailored specifically for those managing rheumatic conditions in the heart of Arizona.

https://summitrheumatology.com/patient-lifestyle/navigating-valley-fever-a-guide-for-rheumatology-patients-in-arizona/

Navigating Valley Fever: A Guide For Rheumatology Patients In Arizona | Summit Rheumatology: Arizona Rheumatology Specialists Valley fever is on the rise in Arizona. Here’s what you need to know about its transmission, its contagiousness, and why it poses risks for rheumatology patients on biologic or immunosuppressant medications. 

Our rheumatology specialists are accepting new telehealth patients!☎️

If you experience frequent flares of gout pain or have struggled to lower your blood uric acid levels, give us a call at (480) 494-2770 or visit summitrheumatology.com/contact-us/ to schedule a telehealth appointment!

Summit Rheumatology is an established Gout Center of Excellence for the diagnosis, treatment and management of gout. Our dedicated gout specialists have decades of experience and want to help you take control of your symptoms.

If you're struggling with painful, swollen joints, give us a call or send us a message at summitrheumatology.com/contact-us/.

If you are interested in scheduling an appointment with one of our rheumatology specialists, visit summitrheumatolgy.com or give us a call at (480) 494-2770.

Today marks the start of National Public Health Week 2024.

Since its declaration in 1995, the first full week of April has been honored as National Public Health Week (NPHW), serving as a pivotal moment for communities across the United States to acknowledge the vital contributions of public health initiatives. It offers a platform to spotlight crucial issues aimed at enhancing the overall well-being of the public.

This year's NPHW themes are:

• Monday: Civic Engagement
• Tuesday: Healthy Neighborhoods
• Wednesday: Climate Change
• Thursday: New Tools and Innovations
• Friday: Reproductive and Sexual Health
• Saturday: Emergency Preparedness
• Sunday: Future of Public Health

Join us in recognizing the efforts of public health professionals worldwide who work diligently to advance health equity and foster healthier communities.🌎

In honor of National Doctor's Day, let's get to know Summit Rheumatology's
very own Chief of Rheumatology, Dr. Brittany Panico 🤝

Fun fact: She won an award for creating a feature on the telemed platform that Summit uses. Ask her about it next time you have a telehealth appointment!

Favorite place: Any beach with her family.

Favorite Restaurant: Smyth in Chicago, IL.

Bucket List Item: Banff National Park in Canada.

Favorite Season: Summer

Hobbies: She enjoys being a sports mom for whatever sports her kids are participating in, reading, and exercising. Dr. Panico is passionate about growing her social media platform to educate about what rheumatologists do and diseases they treat.

Can't live without: Her husband, her blow dryer, and sleep!

Pets: Nova, her rescue husky pup!

Thank you for all you do, Dr. Panico! 🌟

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is the most prevalent form of arthritis among children under 16 years old. It is an autoimmune condition with symptoms that may persist into adulthood. Patients diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis often require a transition of care from a pediatric rheumatologist to an adult rheumatologist when they turn 18. Our team at Summit Rheumatology accepts patients making this transition!

Check out our latest blog and discover strategies to facilitate the transition from pediatric to adult care for juvenile idiopathic arthritis.

Treatment Of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: Transitioning To Adult Care | Summit Rheumatology: Arizona Rheumatology Specialists Transitioning from pediatric to adult care presents a unique set of challenges. Significant life changes like going away to college, starting a new job, or

What kind of doctors treat gout?

Typically, a primary care physician will refer a gout patient to a specialist. Most often, a rheumatologist, podiatrist, or nephrologist can diagnose, treat, and manage gout. During these visits, the doctor or advanced practice provider will determine the best type of treatment based on the severity of gout symptoms.

Summit Rheumatology is a Gout Center of Excellence. Our team is dedicated to treating gout of all stages and severities. We help patients understand how gout affects more than just their joints. If you have questions, give us a call or send us a message at summitrheumatology.com/contact-us/.

We love to hear such positive reviews from our patients! If you are a past, or current Summit patient, we'd love to hear your feedback! Leave us a review on Google: https://g.page/r/CXXDYMi1Fa9jEAI/review

Summit Rheumatology is shedding light on Antiphospholipid antibody syndrome (APS) in honor of Bleeding Disorder Awareness Month.

🩸 APS is an autoimmune disease mostly affecting women between ages of 30 and 40. Abnormal proteins (aPL) can cause the formation of clots in veins and arteries. Clots can cause miscarriage, harm a fetus, or lead to heart attacks, pulmonary embolism or strokes.

In severe cases, multiple organs can be affected causing damage.

It is estimated that 30-50% of people with APS also have an additional autoimmune disease, such as lupus. While there is currently no cure for APS, Summit's team of rheumatology specialists will work with you and your specialists to develop a comprehensive treatment plan.

Did you know there are more than 20 types of vasculitis diagnosed and treated by rheumatologists?

Vasculitis is a rare disorder in which inflammation causes the lining of the arteries, veins, capillaries, and blood vessels to narrow, which then decreases blood flow.

Check out our latest blog to learn more about the most common forms of vasculitis.

Types Of Vasculitis Explained | Summit Rheumatology: Arizona Rheumatology Specialists Depending on the extent of inflammation, and the area that the inflammation occurs, the severity of symptoms may vary. There are more than 20 types of

☎️Calling All Gout Patients!☎️ If you prefer the convenience of a virtual rheumatology visit, schedule your gout telehealth appointment at summitrheumatology.com or give us a call at (480) 494-2770.

Our providers at Summit Rheumatology are happy to do everything possible to ensure our patients are comfortable during their visits and throughout treatment. Visit summitrheumatology.com to learn more or schedule your appointment.

March is National Nutrition Month! Food is essential to everyone. Understanding food groups and acquiring the skills to thoughtfully plan and prepare nutritious meals and snacks is crucial for overall well-being. Embrace these tips and make informed choices to nourish your body!

Rare doesn't mean alone. On Rare Disease Day and every day, Summit Rheumatology stands united with the rare disease community.🤝💙

We're proud to provide treatment here in the Phoenix Valley for a number of rare autoimmune conditions, including scleroderma, ankylosing spondylitis, and vasculitis.

Does Cracking Your Knuckles Cause Arthritis?

That "popping" noise that you hear when you crack your knuckles isn't actually your joint. Small bubbles of synovial fluid surround your joints, and this is the sound you hear when you pop your fingers or neck. Studies have shown that repetitive cracking doesn't necessarily increase your risk of arthritis.

Check out our latest blog to learn more about common arthritis myths and misconceptions.

Can You Get Arthritis From Cracking Your Knuckles Arthritis is the inflammation of the joints. While you may have been told you can get arthritis from cracking your knuckles, the truth about that popping sound might surprise you.