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Arthritis is a general term for a group of inflammatory diseases that affect the joints, leading to pain, swelling, and limited mobility. One of its less common forms is reactive arthritis—a condition that can affect not only the musculoskeletal system but also other parts of the body. If you want to learn more about it, read on. This article will explain what reactive arthritis is, highlight its primary causes, and describe the early warning signs to watch out for.
What Is Reactive Arthritis?
Reactive arthritis, also known as Reiter-Leroy syndrome, is a condition triggered by a bacterial infection in the body. It typically affects the knees, ankles, and feet, and sometimes involves the urethra, eyes, and skin. Unlike other forms of arthritis, the symptoms of reactive arthritis are usually not chronic and may resolve within a year if treated promptly.
What Causes Reactive Arthritis?
Reactive arthritis develops as a result of a bacterial infection that affects the digestive tract, urinary tract, or respiratory system. In some cases, you might not even be aware of the underlying infection, as its symptoms can be mild or go unnoticed.
Common bacteria that may trigger reactive arthritis include:
- Campylobacter
- Chlamydia
- Clostridium difficile
- Escherichia coli
- Salmonella
- Shigella
- Yersinia
The disease itself is not contagious. However, the bacteria that cause it can be transmitted through sexual contact or exposure to contaminated surfaces, food, or water.
What Are the Risk Factors for Reactive Arthritis?
Although reactive arthritis can affect anyone, several factors can increase the risk of developing the condition:
- Age – Most commonly occurs in individuals between 20 and 40 years old.
- Sex – Men are more frequently affected than women.
- Genetics – People who carry the HLA-B27 gene are at a higher risk.
- Autoimmune diseases – Those with autoimmune conditions such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis have an increased risk.
- Weakened immune system – A compromised immune system makes the body more susceptible to infections, thereby increasing the risk.
- Hormonal changes – Some studies suggest that hormonal fluctuations may also contribute to the development of the condition.
What Are the Symptoms of Reactive Arthritis and How to Spot the Early Signs?
Early symptoms usually appear 1 to 4 weeks after the initial infection. The first signs often include joint pain, stiffness, and swelling—especially in the knees, feet, and ankles. Other symptoms may include redness and a burning sensation in the affected joints.
Regardless of the symptoms' intensity, it’s crucial to contact a healthcare provider at the first sign of trouble. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent the progression of the disease. Without intervention, the condition may worsen and lead to additional issues such as:
- Eye inflammation – Many people with reactive arthritis develop conjunctivitis, characterized by redness, burning, tearing, and a gritty sensation in the eyes. In more severe cases, uveitis may occur, potentially causing blurred vision and light sensitivity.
- Urinary tract problems – Some patients experience burning, pain, and lower abdominal discomfort during urination.
- Enthesitis – Inflammation of the tendons and ligaments where they attach to bone, often affecting the feet.
- Dactylitis – Swelling of the fingers or toes, giving them a "sausage-like" appearance.
- Skin issues – Scaly rashes on the palms and soles, sores, or in rare cases, ulcers in the mouth or on the genitals.
How Is Reactive Arthritis Diagnosed?
The symptoms of reactive arthritis can be similar to those of other conditions, which can make diagnosis challenging.
If you’re experiencing joint discomfort, it’s best to consult a rheumatologist. The doctor may order blood tests to determine the cause of your symptoms. Additional tests may include a urine sample analysis or a needle aspiration to extract fluid from an inflamed joint. If these tests are inconclusive, imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI may be needed to confirm whether the inflammation is due to reactive arthritis or another condition.
How Is Reactive Arthritis Treated?
Treatment for reactive arthritis may involve medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes. Here’s a closer look at each option:
Medications
If a bacterial infection is identified as the cause, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to eliminate it. The specific antibiotic will depend on the bacteria involved and the severity of symptoms.
To reduce joint pain, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be recommended. While they can provide fast relief, they may also cause side effects such as stomach pain, nausea, and increased heart rate. Therefore, you should take them only under medical supervision and report any adverse reactions.
If NSAIDs are ineffective, corticosteroids might be prescribed. These are strong medications that can be taken orally or injected. They’re usually used for short periods due to potential side effects like high blood pressure, fluid retention, and, if misused, even diabetes.
Important: Never take medications that haven’t been prescribed by your doctor. Doing so may worsen your condition or intensify your symptoms.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can play a vital role in managing reactive arthritis. It helps reduce pain, improves circulation, and reduces joint inflammation. Techniques may include hot and cold compresses, electrical stimulation, ultrasound, and more.
Lifestyle Changes
To manage reactive arthritis more effectively, consider making some changes to your daily habits. Start with your diet—avoid sugary foods, soft drinks, processed meats, and fried foods. Instead, focus on fruits, vegetables, fish, beans, avocados, and green tea. For a personalized plan, consult a dietitian to ensure you’re getting all the essential nutrients.
Physical activity is also crucial. Swimming is highly recommended for people with arthritis, but if that’s not an option, try walking or practicing yoga. These activities can relieve joint pain and improve flexibility.
Reactive arthritis is an uncomfortable condition caused by an underlying infection. It can affect not only the joints but also other parts of the body such as the eyes, urinary tract, and skin. To alleviate symptoms and prevent complications, it’s important to consult a rheumatologist at the first sign of trouble.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. For more helpful health content, explore our health portal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between reactive and rheumatoid arthritis?
Unlike reactive arthritis, which develops in response to an infection, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy joint tissues. You can learn more about rheumatoid arthritis [here].
How can reactive arthritis be prevented?
Prevention includes several key practices. First, maintain good hand hygiene—wash your hands frequently or use hand sanitizer when outside. Second, practice safe sex to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections. Vaccinations against diseases like hepatitis and diphtheria may also lower the risk of infections that could trigger reactive arthritis.
Can reactive arthritis symptoms return after treatment?
Yes, in some cases, symptoms may reappear—especially if the initial infection isn’t fully treated or if treatment recommendations aren’t followed. The risk of recurrence is higher in people with certain risk factors like autoimmune conditions.
