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Understanding Reactive Arthritis

By Kim Archer

Reactive arthritis is an autoimmune disease that arises as a consequence of an infection in a different area of the body. Since its emergence is set off by a different infection, it's named "reactive". Most typically, reactive arthritis takes place because of of the existence of some type of infection like bacterial infections, genital infections or gastrointestinal infections. Even food poisoning has been known to bring about reactive arthritis. It's frequently challenging to determine the true source, since the initial infection has typically been healed before the signs of reactive arthritis materialize.

Reactive arthritis is a disorder that is inclined to strike individuals who are in their 20s and 30s. It seems that men are more impacted by the problem than females. Moreover, white males are more prone to develop reactive arthritis than African-American men, and the explanation for this is that of distinctive kinds of tissue. And finally, HIV-positive people have an increased possibility of being affected by reactive arthritis.

This disease can impact the vertebrae, urinary tract, colon, joints, mouth, eyes, and heart. A number of the symptoms of this disease are similar to other forms of arthritis, especially psoriatic arthritis.

When an individual develops reactive arthritis they will usually detect three conspicuous issues. Among these is inflammation in the large joints, triggering stiffness and lack of mobility. The next is inflammation of the eyes, or conjunctivitis, related to irritation and reddening of the eyes along with blurry eyesight. The third indication is called urethritis, which leads to difficulty urinating. The individual will experience a stinging feeling at the time of urination. Furthermore, they also are inclined to urinate more often. Additional indications of the disorder involve the development of a rash on the bottoms of the feet. The issues that arise will usually persist for about three weeks to a month.

Treatment for this condition must be carried out very cautiously. Prior to going forward with any sort of treatment, the health care provider will conduct tests, both in the clinic along with in a laboratory. The doctor will take stool cultures and urine samples, and will also order a blood test. Doing an MRI is also recommended.

Treatment for reactive arthritis must aim at establishing and eliminating the condition in the areas that have been infected. Most effective way to manage the infections is via antibiotics. To take care of inflammation of the joints the physician may recommend making use of steroids and pain relievers. When the disease is particularly serious, the use of an immunosuppressant is advised. - 26706

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