Reactive arthritis is activated by an infection in the body. Generally, a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or a bacterial infection in the intestines can lead to reactive arthritis. The condition does not develop until the infection has been treated successfully.
Individuals who have reactive arthritis typically experience symptoms in the bigger joints of the lower extremities. The condition is considered uncommon but men are likely to develop the condition than women. The average age in which the condition starts is 30 years old and men are likely to suffer from intense joint pain than women.
What are the possible causes of reactive arthritis?
A bacterial infection of the urinary tract or the intestines is the usual cause of reactive arthritis. The usual bacterium linked with reactive arthritis is Chlamydia trachomatis which usually spreads via sexual contact.
The bacteria that is responsible for food poisoning can also lead to the development of the symptoms of reactive arthritis such as salmonella and shigella.
Genetics might also play a role whether or not the individual develops reactive arthritis. Those who possess the gene HLA B27 are likely to end up with this type of arthritis. Nevertheless, not all who have this gene can develop the condition if they have an infection.
Indications of reactive arthritis
Remember that there are 3 distinct groups of symptoms that are linked with reactive arthritis.
Musculoskeletal
- Joint pain and swelling (ankles, knees and sacroiliac joints of the pelvis)
- Joint tightness
- Swelling of the fingers, buttocks, back or heels
Urinary
Urethritis involves inflammation of the urethra which leads to the urinary symptoms. The symptoms usually include pain or burning sensation during urination and the frequent urge to urinate.
Men are likely to develop prostatitis as part of reactive arthritis. This involves inflammation of the prostate gland. As for cervicitis, it involves inflammation of the cervix among women which can be an indication of reactive arthritis.
Skin and eyes
- Inflammation of the eye which includes itchiness, pain and drainage
- Skin rashes and mouth sores (uncommon)
Management
The treatment for reactive arthritis usually depends on the exact cause of the condition. The doctor might prescribe antibiotic medications to manage an underlying infection. Other medications might be given for the mouth ulcers, conjunctivitis or skin rashes if needed.
Medications
The objective of treatment once the underlying infection is controlled is aimed on pain relief. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are given to alleviate the pain and inflammation.
Stronger anti-inflammatory drugs are given if the over-the-counter variants are not effective. Corticosteroids are given to fight the white blood cells and other chemicals in the body that triggers inflammation. These are given orally or injected directly into the affected joints.
Exercise
It is vital to include exercise to the daily routine to promote joint health. Regular exercise can help keep the joints supple and preserves the range of motion.
A doctor should be consulted if pain and stiffness limits the range of motion. Physical therapy is usually recommended which aims to restore the range of motion without pain.