Reactive arthritis
What is Reactive Arthritis?
Reactive arthritis is a type of arthritis that happens when your body's immune system reacts to an infection in another part of your body. It usually affects your joints, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. The most common infections that can trigger reactive arthritis are those in the urinary tract, intestines, or genitals. This condition can occur in both children and adults, and it often goes away on its own within a few months.
Diagnosis of Reactive Arthritis
Diagnosing reactive arthritis can be challenging because its symptoms can be similar to other types of arthritis. Your doctor will ask about your medical history, perform a physical examination, and order tests to rule out other conditions. These tests may include blood tests, joint fluid analysis, and imaging tests like X-rays or ultrasounds. It's important to communicate any recent infections or symptoms you may have experienced to help your doctor make an accurate diagnosis.
Treatment for Reactive Arthritis
While there is no cure for reactive arthritis, there are treatments available to help manage the symptoms and reduce inflammation. Your doctor may recommend nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to relieve pain and swelling. In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be used to target specific joints. Physical therapy exercises can also help improve joint mobility and strength. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions and take any prescribed medications regularly to manage the symptoms effectively.
Preventive Measures for Reactive Arthritis
Preventing reactive arthritis involves taking steps to avoid infections that can trigger the condition. Practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands regularly and avoiding contact with people who have infections. If you have a urinary tract or genital infection, seek prompt treatment to reduce the risk of developing reactive arthritis. It's also important to protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections by practicing safe sex. By taking these preventive measures, you can reduce the likelihood of developing reactive arthritis and its associated symptoms.
What is Reactive Arthritis?
Reactive arthritis is a type of arthritis that happens when your body's immune system reacts to an infection in another part of your body. It usually affects your joints, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. The most common infections that can trigger reactive arthritis are those in the urinary tract, intestines, or genitals. This condition can occur in both children and adults, and it often goes away on its own within a few months.
Diagnosis of Reactive Arthritis
Diagnosing reactive arthritis can be challenging because its symptoms can be similar to other types of arthritis. Your doctor will ask about your medical history, perform a physical examination, and order tests to rule out other conditions. These tests may include blood tests, joint fluid analysis, and imaging tests like X-rays or ultrasounds. It's important to communicate any recent infections or symptoms you may have experienced to help your doctor make an accurate diagnosis.
Treatment for Reactive Arthritis
While there is no cure for reactive arthritis, there are treatments available to help manage the symptoms and reduce inflammation. Your doctor may recommend nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to relieve pain and swelling. In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be used to target specific joints. Physical therapy exercises can also help improve joint mobility and strength. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions and take any prescribed medications regularly to manage the symptoms effectively.
Preventive Measures for Reactive Arthritis
Preventing reactive arthritis involves taking steps to avoid infections that can trigger the condition. Practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands regularly and avoiding contact with people who have infections. If you have a urinary tract or genital infection, seek prompt treatment to reduce the risk of developing reactive arthritis. It's also important to protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections by practicing safe sex. By taking these preventive measures, you can reduce the likelihood of developing reactive arthritis and its associated symptoms.
Symptom list:
Reactive arthritis
Financial support
Not all of us are able to afford the treatment we need. Search your insurance coverage, or check out what charities may be able to offer you for your condition.
p.s. Just because you have insurance, that doesn't mean that charities or other organizations are not able to support you too.
Emotional support
Whether it's a free counseling session or to find someone with a similar diagnosis, these Germie approved charities might be able to help. Click to explore their offerings!
