Overview
Reactive arthritis is a type of joint inflammation triggered by an infection in another part of the body, often in the intestines, genitals, or urinary tract. The condition typically affects the knees, ankles, and feet, and can also cause inflammation in the eyes, skin, and urinary tract. The symptoms usually start 1 to 4 weeks after exposure to the triggering infection and may include joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, as well as inflammation in other parts of the body. Reactive arthritis is not very common, and for most people, the signs and symptoms disappear within 12 months.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
The symptoms of reactive arthritis include joint pain and swelling, usually targeting the knees, ankles, and feet. Other symptoms may include eye inflammation (conjunctivitis), urinary problems, inflammation of tendons and ligaments, swollen toes or fingers, skin problems, and low back pain. These symptoms typically appear 1 to 4 weeks after exposure to a triggering infection.
Risk Factors
The risk factors for developing reactive arthritis include:
- Age: Reactive arthritis most commonly occurs in adults between the ages of 20 and 40.
- Sex: Women and men have an equal likelihood of developing reactive arthritis in response to foodborne infections. However, men are more likely than women to develop reactive arthritis in response to sexually transmitted bacteria.
- Hereditary factors: A specific genetic marker has been linked to reactive arthritis. However, most people who have this marker never develop the condition. Remember that these risk factors do not guarantee the development of reactive arthritis, and many people who have one or more risk factors never develop the condition.
Development
Reactive arthritis develops as a result of an infection in another part of the body, most commonly in the intestines, genitals, or urinary tract. This triggers joint pain and swelling, affecting the knees, ankles, feet, and other areas. The condition usually resolves within 12 months, with symptoms coming and going. Rheumatoid arthritis, on the other hand, is an autoimmune disorder that causes joint inflammation and damage. It can affect various body systems, including the skin, eyes, lungs, heart, and blood vessels. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease caused by wear and tear, while gout results from the formation of uric acid crystals due to high levels of uric acid in the blood.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
You should see a doctor if reactive arthritis is suspected. While reactive arthritis is not a common condition, it is essential to consult a doctor if you experience the symptoms, as they can help determine the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment. Symptoms of reactive arthritis include joint pain and swelling, primarily affecting the knees, ankles, and feet. The symptoms usually occur 1 to 4 weeks after exposure to a triggering infection in the intestines, genitals, or urinary tract. A doctor can perform tests to identify the causative infection and recommend appropriate treatment options.
Diagnosis
To diagnose reactive arthritis, doctors typically perform a physical exam to check for swelling, redness, and warmth in the joints. They may also test range of motion in the spine and affected joints. Blood tests are recommended to check for past or current infection, signs of inflammation, and genetic markers linked to reactive arthritis. Joint fluid tests may be performed to check for increased white blood cell count, signs of infection, or the presence of crystals. Imaging tests, such as X-rays, may be used to identify joint damage or other characteristic signs of reactive arthritis. A diagnosis of reactive arthritis is often confirmed through a combination of these tests and evaluations.
Management and Treatment
Treatment
Reactive arthritis usually disappears within 12 months, and treatments for arthritis in general may include pain relief medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications. For more information on the treatments for reactive arthritis, it would be best to consult a healthcare professional.
Preparing for medical consultation
To prepare for an appointment for reactive arthritis, you should:
- Gather personal and medical information: Make a list of your symptoms, including any that may seem unrelated to the reason you made the appointment, and when they began. Also, include information about medical problems you've had in the past, your family's medical history, and all medications, vitamins, or other supplements you take, including doses.
- Write down questions for your doctor: Prepare a list of questions to ask your doctor during the appointment. Some basic questions to ask include what is likely causing your symptoms, what tests are needed, what treatment approach is recommended, and what you can do to relieve joint pain.
- Bring a family member or friend: Consider bringing a family member or friend along to help you remember the information provided during the appointment.
- Be aware of pre-appointment restrictions: When you schedule the appointment, ask if there are any specific instructions you should follow before your visit.
- Practice good posture: Improving your posture may help alleviate some of the issues associated with ankylosing spondylitis. Standing straight and practicing good posture in front of a mirror can be helpful.
- Join a support group: Connecting with others who have reactive arthritis or similar conditions through an online or in-person support group can provide valuable insight, sharing experiences, and emotional support. Remember to be as detailed and specific as possible when describing your symptoms during the appointment, and don't hesitate to ask additional questions if there's any information you're unsure about.