The German Rheumatology Society said that reactive arthritis is an inflammation of the joints resulting from an infection in other parts of the body.
The association explained that reactive arthritis usually occurs after a gastrointestinal infection caused by salmonella or campylobacter, for example, or a urinary tract or genital infection caused by gonococci, for example, or a respiratory infection caused by chlamydia pneumoniae, for example.
Symptoms
Symptoms of reactive arthritis include redness, swelling, warmth, pain, and limited mobility in the joint, as well as fatigue, fever, and loss of appetite.
Reactive arthritis most often attacks large joints such as the hips, knees and ankles, while the shoulders, elbows or wrists are less likely to be affected. In some cases, small joints such as the fingers or feet can also be affected.
Treatment methods
A doctor should be consulted immediately upon noticing symptoms of reactive arthritis to undergo timely treatment, in order to avoid possible serious consequences such as joint pain and chronic tendon problems.
Reactive arthritis is treated with medications such as painkillers, cortisone, and anti-rheumatic drugs, in addition to physical therapy and cryotherapy.