Reactive Arthritis is a type of arthritis that occurs as a result of an infection in the body. When one gets an infection the body reacts by triggering this form of arthritis. Typical infections triggering this form of arthritis are urinary tract infections (UTI), intestinal infections and in some cases, chlamydia. Food born illnesses can also be a cause for this rare form of arthritis. It’s also known as Reiter’s Syndrome.
Reiter’s Syndrome can attack the body quite suddenly without any warning. It typically attacks men between the ages of 20 and 40. It may also attack women but this is much more rare. Typical areas of the body that it will attack are the joints, urinary tract, eyes as well as fingers, knees and feet including the toes. There is a feeling of malaise throughout the body.
The symptoms generally begin within one to three weeks of infection and the infection may actually be gone by the time the disease attacks. The condition may last from three to 12 months depending upon the persons immune system, overall health condition and how the person responds to treatment.
To diagnose the condition doctors will need a complete medical history including any sexually transmitted diseases. Also important to note is that restaurant workers are at a higher risk of this condition, especially if they are the ones preparing the foods. This can also mask as a food born illness and will often find its way into the body through small nicks or cuts in the fingers or hands. Recent illnesses and flu like symptoms should also be reported to the doctor.
Reactive arthritis is treatable once it’s been properly diagnosed. The doctor may first treat the underlying condition if it hasn’t yet been cleared up. Antibiotics, pain medications and corticosteroids such as prednisone may all be prescribed to combat the effects of this condition. For particularly stubborn cases, methotrexate may also be prescribed either via a weekly injection or orally.
Weekly physical therapy sessions may also be required depending upon the location of the attack. These sessions will not begin until the inflammation is under control. Physical therapists will work with the doctor and the patient on a plan to regain as much mobility as possible.
Recovery is possible for most patients suffering from this form of arthritis. Most can return to their work within two to six months of the initial attack. This may take a bit longer for more severe cases.
In some cases, the symptoms may continue for up to 12 months while others may not have any more symptoms again in their lifetime.
There is a small percentage of those who have become infected to have the condition continuing due to a reinfection or due to severe joint damage. It may become a chronic condition due to the response of the body. Just as in a typical case of arthritis, there is still treatment available.
With the proper medical attention, most patients will make a complete and full recovery from this type of arthritis and be able to enjoy a long and healthy life.
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