Palm Beach Rheumatology And Wellness Center

Osteoporosis is often misunderstood as a condition you either have or don’t, similar to a cold or a broken bone. However, this binary view is both absurd and harmful. Osteoporosis is a complex, progressive disease that requires a nuanced approach, not just a diagnosis at a critical point. 🦴

Early intervention really matters ➡️ Too often, clinical diagnosis is the starting point for treatment. But why wait until the damage is done? Early intervention and proactive management are crucial. Osteoporosis doesn’t happen overnight; it’s a gradual weakening of bones that can lead to severe consequences if not addressed in time. ⏰

🩺✨ We all love our supplements, but they’re not completely harmless. If you have an autoimmune condition, it’s crucial to discuss your supplements with your doctor. Medical science is constantly evolving, and we learn new things every day.

I recently learned from Dr. Michele Petri, a renowned rheumatologist with expertise in lupus, about some potential complications of turmeric:

🌟 Gall bladder obstruction
🌟 Kidney stones
🌟 Stomach hyperacidity/ulcers
🌟 Increased tacrolimus levels (a medication sometimes used to treat lupus)
🌟 Aggravated brain pathology in experimental lupus

➡️ Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement!

Introducing our Life-Energy Program 💫

I rarely hand out a one-size-fits-all prescription. My goal is to empower you to take charge of your fitness, nutrition, sleep, and emotional health. This journey requires your active participation—changing habits and putting in the work.

For most of these areas, I don’t even need a prescription pad. Instead, I aim to provide you with the knowledge and tools to make informed decisions. Whether it’s adjusting your diet, finding a sustainable exercise routine, improving your sleep quality, or managing stress, the action part is up to you.

Remember, there’s no universal solution. Personalized advice needs individual feedback and iteration, something I can’t provide without seeing you personally. True health transformation is a partnership—let’s work together to create sustainable, healthy changes!

🌿 Ready to take the first step? Join me in this empowering journey to a healthier, happier you! Don’t delay—invest in your well-being today! 💪

DM me for more info or follow the link in bio if you are ready to sign up. 🌿

At Palm Beach Rheumatology and Wellness Center, our approach to health and wellness is all about finding a personalized framework for managing movement, nutrition, sleep, and emotional health-no rigid prescriptions here!
We draw on the latest science and clinical experience, constantly experimenting and adapting both my regimen and my patients! We don't stick to diet labels like "keto" or
"low-fat," nor do we prioritize one type of exercise over another. Instead, we explore and test various tactics to find what works best for each individual. Flexibility and openness to change are key!
For instance, while I used to ask patients to keep food journals, I no longer rely solely on them. With our advanced food sensitivity tests, we gain comprehensive insights beyond what a journal can provide. Our methods evolve as we learn and grow. Let's embrace a dynamic approach to health!

Did you know that quitting smoking at any age increases life expectancy, with the most significant gains in younger people? However, even those who quit after 65 can extend their lives.
A study of individuals aged 35-75 found that smokers can lose up to 9.1 years of life, but quitting can regain many of those years. For instance, a 35-year-old smoker could lose 9.1 years, while quitting can add up to 8 years back. A 65-year-old smoker could lose 5.9 years, but quitting can add 1.7 years. The study underscores the benefits of quitting smoking at any age, including for seniors.
E Source: Thuy 😭. Le, PhD, University of Michigan, American Journal of Preventive Medicine.

📢 Excited to be at the Florida Society of Rheumatology Conference this weekend! 🌴

Conferences like these are crucial for the rheumatology community. They provide a platform for sharing knowledge, discussing new research, and collaborating on innovative approaches. By exchanging information and learning from each other, we can enhance our understanding of complex conditions and improve patient outcomes.

"May we think of freedom not as the right to do as we please, but as the opportunity to do what is right."

Peter Marshall

For those who are new here, let me introduce myself - I am Dr. Reshma Khan, founder and board-certified rheumatologist at Palm Beach Rheumatology and Wellness Center. For six consecutive years, I’ve been humbled to be voted by my peers as Top Doctor in Palm Beach Illustrated. Trained at Wayne State University and Henry Ford Hospital, I bring expertise and innovation to my practice at Palm Beach. At our center, we prioritize patient-driven care, offering advanced treatments and a welcoming environment. Specializing in inflammatory arthritis like rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, Ankylosing spondylitis, and Lupus, I provide comprehensive diagnosis and treatment.

Our state-of-the-art infusion center delivers cutting-edge infusion therapies. Believing in a preventive approach and “wellness from inside,” I offer lifestyle coaching focusing on anti-inflammatory diets, sleep, and exercise. As an active member of the American College of Rheumatology and Florida Society of Rheumatology, I stay at the forefront of advancements in rheumatology. Excitingly, I’m also a founder of a nonprofit organization uniting hundreds of women rheumatologists worldwide.

Ready to experience world-class care? Book an appointment at www.drkhanrheumatologist.com. For those interested in our lifestyle coaching and counseling program to better your health, you can explore our Life-Energy program at www.reshmakhanmd.org (you can find the link under my linktree in bio). Your journey to wellness begins here! 💫

🥗 As a rheumatologist, I often emphasize the importance of a balanced diet for managing inflammation and overall health. Did you know that the way we prepare our vegetables can impact their nutritional value? Some veggies are actually more nutritious when cooked, while others retain their benefits best when raw.

Cooking vegetables such as carrots, spinach, mushrooms, asparagus, cabbage, and peppers can break down their cell structures, making it easier for our bodies to absorb essential nutrients. This process can enhance the availability of vitamins and minerals without significant nutrient loss. So next time you’re preparing a meal, consider the method that maximizes the health benefits of your veggies!

Stay healthy and keep nourishing your body the best way possible! 🥕🍄🌿

Feeling excessively sleepy during the day? 💤🥱

The Epworth Sleepiness Scale is a simple, effective tool widely used in the field of sleep medicine, to assess your level of daytime sleepiness and identify potential sleep disorders. It measures how likely you are to doze off in various everyday situations.

Here’s how it works:
1. Rate your chances of dozing off in 8 different scenarios on a scale from 0 (would never doze) to 3 (high chance of dozing).
2. Add up your scores to get a total anywhere up to 24.

Check out the 8 different scenarios and calculate your own score.

Comment with your score, and I’d be glad to analyze and interpret it for you!✅

Our Life Energy Coaching program was born from the belief that prevention is the key to rheumatic wellness.
Imagine avoiding illnesses with proactive tools tailored just for you.
Become a Life Energy member to integrate personalized lifestyle enhancements, ensuring a profound impact on your symptoms, overall health, and well-being. Our program focuses on giving you the knowledge and support to make informed decisions about your health, helping you to stay ahead of potential issues before they arise.
Explore more about how we can help you achieve a healthier, more balanced life at www.reshmakhanmd.org
Questions or ready to sign up? → Contact us at (561)658-1323

Let's redefine your path to healing by shifting the focus from curing to preventing. Together, we can make lasting changes for a healthier future.💫

As a rheumatologist, I emphasize the importance of recognizing when osteoporosis treatment is essential. Consider treatment if you:

➡️ Have osteopenia and experienced a fragility fracture in your hip or spine: Fragility fractures indicate compromised bone strength and an elevated risk for future fractures.
➡️ Have a T-score of -2.5 or lower: A T-score at or below -2.5 signifies osteoporosis, reflecting a significant reduction in bone density and heightened fracture risk.
➡️ Have osteopenia with a high FRAX score: The FRAX tool assesses your 10-year probability of major osteoporotic fractures. A high score indicates an increased risk, warranting preventive treatment.

Proactive management can significantly improve quality of life and reduce the risk of severe complications. If any of these apply to you, consult your healthcare provider about osteoporosis treatment options. 🩺🩻

If you’re diagnosed with osteoporosis based on your bone density, here’s what to expect next:

1. Evaluation for Secondary Causes: We’ll investigate underlying factors contributing to your osteoporosis.

2. Check for Vertebral Fractures: Surprisingly, these can be asymptomatic, so a thorough check is essential.

3. Bone Turnover Markers: While not routinely used, they can help assess rapid bone loss and fracture risk in some cases.

➡️Stay informed and proactive about your bone health! 🦴✨

Did you know that if you are a woman over 50 years of age and postmenopausal, you may be at risk for osteoporosis? 🦴

How is osteoporosis diagnosed or risk assessed? A detailed history, physical exam, and clinical fracture risk analysis using fracture risk assessment tools are essential. Bone mineral density (BMD) should be considered based on the individual’s risk profile.

Osteoporosis is diagnosed based on a T-score of -2.5 or less in the lumbar spine, femoral neck, total hip, or distal one-third of the radius, even in the absence of a fracture. Additionally, osteoporosis can be diagnosed if the T-score is between -1.0 and -2.5 if the person has a high FRAX score or has had a fragility fracture, regardless of the T-score.

Stay informed and take care of your bone health! 💪

Sharing a personal journey close to my heart 💙

I’m Dr. Khan, driven by a passion to help others as a doctor 🩺. Yet, I found myself neglecting my own well-being in the relentless pursuit of serving my patients. At 40, I had a pivotal realization - sacrificing my health for noble causes was unsustainable. I couldn’t preach lifestyle changes without living them. Balancing a busy practice left little time for my own wellness, but I refused to set a poor example. Determined to prioritize health and wellness, I embarked on a journey of self-care and rejuvenation embracing five modifiable elements-diet, sleep, mindfulness, social connections, and exercise. Today, I’m committed to leading by example, teaching my children the importance of wellness at any age.

Join me on this transformative journey and discover how you can seamlessly integrate these transformative changes into your life alongside standard therapies for rheumatic diseases. Consider becoming a Life Energy Member to gain valuable insights and support on your journey to comprehensive wellness. Let’s empower ourselves to cultivate a balanced and fulfilling life.🍃

If you have any questions or are ready to sign up for our Life Energy coaching program, visit the link: http://www.reshmakhanmd.org (you can find it in my bio) or call us at 561-658-1323

As a rheumatologist, I often see the profound impact that chronic sleep loss can have on overall health. Alarmingly, 1 in 3 US adults report getting inadequate sleep each night—a statistic that underscores a growing public health concern.

🔬 Why It Matters: Even a single night of altered sleep can trigger significant metabolic and hormonal changes in otherwise healthy individuals. Over time, these disruptions can contribute to the development and exacerbation of numerous diseases, including those affecting the musculoskeletal system.

🧠 The Science Behind Sleep and Health:
- Metabolic Changes: Lack of sleep can lead to insulin resistance and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.
- Hormonal Imbalances: Poor sleep affects hormones that regulate appetite, potentially leading to weight gain and obesity.
- Inflammation: Inadequate sleep can increase inflammatory markers, exacerbating conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory disorders.

🌟 Taking Action: Prioritize sleep as a key component of your health regimen. Here are some tips:
1. Establish a Sleep Routine:Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day.
2. Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment: Ensure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool.
3. Limit Stimulants: Avoid caffeine and electronics before bedtime.

Remember, achieving adequate sleep is not a luxury—it’s a necessity for maintaining long-term health and well-being. Let’s strive for better sleep, and in turn, better health. 🛏️💤

For those who are new here, let me introduce myself - I am Dr. Reshma Khan, founder and board-certified rheumatologist at Palm Beach Rheumatology and Wellness Center. For six consecutive years, I’ve been humbled to be voted by my peers as Top Doctor in Palm Beach Illustrated. Trained at Wayne State University and Henry Ford Hospital, I bring expertise and innovation to my practice at Palm Beach. At our center, we prioritize patient-driven care, offering advanced treatments and a welcoming environment. Specializing in inflammatory arthritis like rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, Ankylosing spondylitis, and Lupus, I provide comprehensive diagnosis and treatment.

Our state-of-the-art infusion center delivers cutting-edge infusion therapies. Believing in a preventive approach and “wellness from inside,” I offer lifestyle coaching focusing on anti-inflammatory diets, sleep, and exercise. As an active member of the American College of Rheumatology and Florida Society of Rheumatology, I stay at the forefront of advancements in rheumatology. Excitingly, I’m also a founder of a nonprofit organization uniting hundreds of women rheumatologists worldwide.

Ready to experience world-class care? Book an appointment at www.drkhanrheumatologist.com. For those interested in our lifestyle coaching and counseling program to better your health, you can explore our Life-Energy program at www.reshmakhanmd.org. Your journey to wellness begins here! 💫

🩺 Did You Know? 🩺

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic autoimmune disease that extends beyond just joint inflammation. This chronic disorder often begins in small peripheral joints, such as those in the hands and feet, and typically manifests symmetrically. RA is influenced by both genetic factors and environmental triggers, including smoking.

Over time, untreated RA can progress to larger, proximal joints, causing severe damage like cartilage loss and bone erosion. Early RA is defined as having symptoms for fewer than six months, while established RA refers to symptoms persisting beyond six months.

Recognizing and treating RA early is crucial, as it can lead to significant disability and increased mortality if left unchecked. Stay informed and proactive about joint health! 💪🦴

Unlocking the Facts About Osteoarthritis (OA)💡

Did you know OA affects 3.3-3.6% of the world’s population and it causes moderate to severe disability in 43 million people, making it the 11th most debilitating disease worldwide? 🤯

This prevalent form of arthritis varies from mild joint pain to debilitating disability.

Age, female gender, anatomical factors, obesity, muscle weakness, and joint injuries are key risk factors.

As a rheumatologist, I’m here to shed light on OA’s impact and offer guidance for managing this condition. Let’s prioritize joint health together! 💪🩺

Happy Mother's Day to all the incredible moms, mother figures, and nurturers out there! 💐 Whether you're a mom to children, pets, or a guiding light in someone's life, today is a celebration of your love, strength, and endless devotion. 🌟

As the founder and rheumatologist at Palm Beach Rheumatology and Wellness Center, I see firsthand the nurturing spirit that mothers bring into the world. Your resilience and care inspire us all.

To all the moms managing autoimmune conditions or supporting loved ones through health challenges, your courage is unmatched. Today, we honor you and send wishes for a day filled with joy, relaxation, and appreciation.

From our team to you, Happy Mother's Day! 🌺💕

Did you know the heart is one of the common target organs of autoimmune diseases? 🫀

The whole structure of the heart can be affected, causing microcirculatory disorders, arrhythmias, pericardial damage, myocarditis, myocardial fibrosis, and impaired valvular function.

➡️ However, early clinical manifestations of autoimmune heart damage are often overlooked because they are insidious or have no typical features. The damage is often severe and irreversible when symptoms are apparent, even life-threatening. Therefore, early detection and treatment of heart damage in autoimmune diseases is particularly important.
Inflammation caused by autoimmune diseases can also damage the linings of blood vessels, encouraging the buildup of fatty plaque that can narrow arteries (atherosclerosis), boost blood pressure, and raise the risk for a heart attack or stroke. This connection likely explains why people with autoimmune conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, have higher rates of heart disease.

At Palm Beach Rheumatology and Wellness Center, we try to focus our approach on ‘cardio-rheumatology’ in our patients aiming to improve cardiac care for people with autoimmune diseases. 🩺💙

⭐️Sleep⭐️ The unsung hero of health 💤

Did you know chronic sleep debt is more dangerous than just nodding off at stop signs? 😴

Studies show that less than 7 hours a night can wreak havoc on your health, from catching colds to heart attacks! 😱 Poor sleep messes with metabolism, increases diabetes risk, and throws hormones out of whack. But it’s not just the body—our brains need quality Zzz’s too!

Better sleep means sharper minds, stronger memories, and happier emotions. 💪 Here’s to prioritizing our rest for a healthier, happier life!

Let's talk about autoimmune diseases & Cardiovascular Health ❤️‍🩹

Did you know the heart is a prime target for autoimmune havoc? From microcirculatory disorders to life-threatening heart damage, autoimmune conditions demand early detection and specialized care. * Early clinical manifestations of autoimmune heart damage are often overlooked because they are insidious or have no typical features. The damage is often severe and irreversible when symptoms are apparent, even life-threatening. Therefore, early detection and treatment of heart damage in autoimmune diseases is particularly important.
Inflammation caused by autoimmune diseases can also damage the linings of blood vessels, encouraging the buildup of fatty plaque that can narrow arteries (atherosclerosis), boost blood pressure, and raise the risk for a heart attack or stroke. This connection likely explains why people with autoimmune conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, have higher rates of heart disease.
Our 'cardio-rheumatology' approach is reshaping cardiac care for autoimmune patients. Let's safeguard hearts and health together!🩺♥️

🚨 Autoimmune Diseases on the Rise 🚨
Recent studies show a concerning surge in autoimmune diseases globally, especially since the Second World War.
This includes over 80 disorders like Crohn's disease, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and type I diabetes, with increasing incidences in both men and women.
In the US, autoimmune diseases are more prevalent in women and rank among the top 10 causes of death for female children and women across all ages. Shockingly, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) reports that 23.5 million Americans are affected by autoimmune diseases, surpassing the number of cancer cases.
Factors like genetic predisposition, environmental influences (like infections), and gut health imbalance (dysbiosis) contribute significantly to autoimmune disease development.
Detecting preclinical autoimmunity-often present for years before clinical symptoms arise-through specific blood tests can be pivotal in early intervention and preventive strategies.
Symptoms of autoimmune disorders can be subtle initially, such as fatigue, low-grade fever, joint, and muscle discomfort. Clinicians well-versed in autoimmune triggers can conduct targeted lab analyses to identify the autoimmune stage and type, facilitating tailored treatment plans that may halt disease progression or even reverse it.
Understanding these nuances not only improves patient outcomes but also offers hope in managing and potentially eliminating autoimmune diseases.
To complement these efforts, our Life-Energy program emphasizes lifestyle changes as a proactive step against future diseases, particularly autoimmune and inflammatory conditions. By prioritizing holistic wellness, we can work towards any alistions or are rinty si, stay hack the *
links in my bio under my linktree or call us at 561-658-1323.

Palm Beach Rheumatology And Wellness Center Palm Beach Rheumatology And Wellness Center is an innovative patient-driven care rheumatology clinic.

Let’s Talk Vitamin D and Autoimmune Health! ☀️ Did you know that vitamin D deficiency has a significant impact on autoimmune diseases?

Studies have shown that low levels of vitamin D are associated with a higher risk of developing autoimmune conditions like type 1 diabetes, multiple sclerosis (MS), and many others.

As a rheumatologist, I’ve seen firsthand the importance of maintaining optimal vitamin D levels for overall immune health. 🙌 Stay tuned for more insights on how to support your immune system and manage autoimmune conditions effectively. Knowledge is power! 💪

➡️ While you might recognize the typical signs of rheumatoid arthritis such as joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, it’s crucial to note that RA extends beyond these common symptoms. This inflammatory condition can impact various parts of your body, leading to unexpected issues like hearing problems, gastrointestinal troubles, shifts in mood and behavior, and more. If you’re facing any of these concerns or others, it’s essential to discuss them with your healthcare provider! 🩺

COVID19: Here is what you need to know from a neurologist!

https://www.drkhanrheumatologist.com/post/covid19-here-is-what-you-need-to-know-from-a-neurologist

drkhanrheumatologist.com You may have already read my previous blog about possible skin involvement in COVID19 in my series of COVID19 multi-specialty educational blogs. Today I am writing another guest blog with the help of my friend and a neurologist Dr. Jennifer Buczyner. In this blog, she discusses about possible neurol...

COVID19 causes purple toes!

As a rheumatologist, I enjoy working with many specialists. Our diseases can involve any organ system. When it comes to treating rheumatological diseases, I firmly believe in team work and multidisciplinary approach to best serve our patients. - Dr. Khan

Read our guest blog by dermatologist Dr. O’Brien.
https://www.drkhanrheumatologist.com/post/covid19-causes-purple-toes

drkhanrheumatologist.com In medicine, not many things really surprise me! As a rheumatologist I am used to seeing uncommon diseases and unusual presentations of diseases. However, this recent COVID-19 has us all puzzled and confused with various unpredictable manifestations. Being a rheumatologist I work with many specialti...

American College of Rheumatology

🟢🟢🟢🟢Suggestions from the American College of Rheumatology for Patients During the COVID-19 Pandemic: When and How to Seek Care🟢🟢🟢🟢🟢

✅ Introduction for providers:
✔️The American College of Rheumatology (ACR) has compiled some common patient questions and answers regarding access to care during the COVID-19 pandemic. These may be helpful to providers and their staff as they address patient concerns. Clinical guidance from the ACR for the treatment of rheumatology patients during the COVID-19 pandemic are available at www.rheumatology.org. Providers are encouraged, of course, to tailor responses to fit individual patients, practices and local circumstances.

✅ Information for patients:

📍Should I go in for my routine rheumatology visit?

If you are taking medicine prescribed by your rheumatologist or rheumatology health professional, you’ll need to continue to have at least some monitoring and follow-up even during COVID-19. Depending on local conditions and regulations, many rheumatology clinics are delaying routine visits or conducting them remotely by video or telephone. If you have not heard from your provider’s office, you should check before you go in.

📍Should I go into the lab for my routine blood work?

Again, it’s best to check with your provider first. Your rheumatologist or rheumatology health professional will take a number of factors (dose and duration of your medicine, prior lab abnormalities, accommodations for social distancing at your lab, etc.) into account and suggest when and where to get blood work done. Discuss with your provider which lab in your community and what time of day might be safest (you may need to schedule an appointment at the lab to avoid crowding). Some communities may be equipped for drive up services. Sometimes delaying your lab tests may be appropriate.

📍Should I go in for my infusion? Injection?

For many patients with inflammatory diseases, continuing infusion and injection treatments is necessary to prevent a flare. For some patients, flares are treated with prednisone which may confer additional risk during the COVID-19 pandemic. For still other patients, such as those with well controlled disease or very high risk of complications should they develop COVID-19, a delay in therapy may be safest. Therefore, it’s advisable to have a conversation with your rheumatologist or rheumatology health professional before going in for an infusion or injection.

📍Can I fill my prescriptions without going to the pharmacy?

Many pharmacies are offering free delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic. Alternatively, your pharmacy may be able to mail your prescription to you if it is not urgent. Check with your local pharmacy to make arrangements.

📍What if I think I have COVID-19?

Your primary care provider is probably the best and first place to call for guidance. The CDC recommends self-quarantine in your home if your symptoms are mild. If you think you need to be seen, contact your primary care or urgent care or emergency department by phone BEFORE you go in. They will have instructions for how to proceed with testing and access care while minimizing exposure to others.
You should also contact your rheumatologist or rheumatology health professional if you think you have COVID-19 or if you have a confirmed case of COVID-19. Some medicines routinely prescribed to rheumatology patients should be discontinued in the setting of infection with SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19). Other medicines can be continued. Your rheumatologist or rheumatology health professional will assess the particulars of your situation and provide specific advice.

Revised 11 April 2020

rheumatology.org American College of Rheumatology represents rheumatologists and rheumatology health professionals around the world and is committed to advancing rheumatology.