Causes And Possible Symptoms To Look Out For: Reactive Arthritis, A Condition That Can Affect People Of Any Age

It is important for us to be mindful of our health and we can only do that getting the right information. One of the diseases that plague many is arthritis. However, there are different forms of this condition, and an example is reactive arthritis.

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This is a painful form of inflammatory arthritis that is caused by bacteria, chlamydia trachomatis, found in the genitals. Chylamidia can be transmitted through sex.

Unlike other forms of arthritis, this lasts for a shorter time usually from 3 months to 1 year. However, it can reoccur over and over again.

Other bacteria causing reactive arthritis include Campylobacter, Salmonella, Shigella, and Yersinia found in the bowel.

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It cannot be passed on but it’s linked to HLA-B27 a gene which could be inherited and increases the chances of contracting it. Anyone can have this inflammatory condition, but reactive arthritis tends to occur mostly in men between the ages of 20-50.

Also, people with HIV and AIDS are at risk of contracting reactive arthritis.

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Reactive arthritis can be triggered by stomach upsets, diarrhoea, throat infection, slapped cheek syndrome and glandular fever.

Symptoms of Reactive Arthritis

As with most diseases, when an individual is suffering from reactive arthritis the symptoms become noticeable between 1 to 4 weeks. These signs include:

• Urinating frequently and experiencing pain during urination as a result of inflammation of the prostate gland or cervix;

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• Swollen toes or fingers;
• Rashes on the sole and palm;
• Mouth sores and inflammation of the eyes;

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Other symptoms are stiffness and pain in the knee, ankle, feet heels and buttocks including low back pain which gets worse at night.

If you have noticed these symptoms, it is advisable that you visit a doctor to get treated and prevent possible recurrence or complications in the future.

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Treatment

Reactive arthritis could go on its own sometimes. However, the infection that triggered it can be treated with antibiotics when it’s not chronic.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs(NSAIDs) can also be used to treat the joint inflammation that comes with reactive arthritis.

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When it gets chronic, Methotrexate, physical therapy and exercise are used to treat it, but make sure you see a doctor.

Outlook for those with the condition

Possible complications could arise from reactive arthritis when it’s not treated effectively. They include:

• Inflammation of the heart muscle;
• Stiffening of the spine;

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• Feet abnormalities;
• Accumulation of fluids in the lungs;
• Progressive blindness and glaucoma.

We need to remember that health is wealth. Hopefully, this article enlightens you about reactive arthritis.

This article is solely for informational purposes. Do not self-diagnose or self-medicate, and in all cases consult a certified healthcare professional before using any information presented in the article. The editorial board does not guarantee any results and does not bear any responsibility for any harm that may result from using the information provided in the article.