Causes and risk factors
The exact modus operandi of the diseases is not known. Studies have put forth that reactive arthritis occurs secondary to an infection. Any infection prevalent elsewhere in the body particularly gastrointestinal or urogenital triggers reactive arthritis. The causative factors majorly responsible are salmonella, shigella, yersinia and Chlamydia.Immunocompromised people have a high risk of developing it. Gastrointestinal affection can precede arthritis. Sexual intercourse with a partner who is suffering from genital infection increases the risk of developing reactive arthritis.
Symptoms
Affection of joints, eyes, and urethra and genital areas is the hallmark of the disease. The symptoms can be acute or insidious. The symptoms manifest at the articular and extra articular level. Pain in joint, swelling and stiffness are the prominent features. Pain may vary from person to person. It can be mild or severe. Difficulty in movement like walking, standing, sitting is experienced by the patient. The common joints affected are the Knee joint and ankle joint. Other symptoms seen are low back pain, pain in buttocks and heel. Extra articular manifestations are at various levels. The person can come up with complain of Conjunctivitis, Frequent urination pain during urination and uvetitis
Various other affections at the level of heart, nerves can also be seen. The pain and stiffness caused can hamper the day to day activities thus making the person feel irritable and depressed. Over time if treatment is neglected, the affected joint and its surrounding structures will deteriorate. Complaints of eyes if not timely treated can cause visual defects or partial or complete blindness.
Investigations
Diagnosis is done of the basis of the symptoms narrated by the patient and the physical examination carried out by the doctor. Certain investigations which can be done are X-ray, MRI or CT scan of the affected joint. Routine blood test, urine test, cultures of discharges from vagina and HLA-B27are certain other investigations which can be advised.
Treatment
Non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs, DMARDS (Diseases modifying anti rheumatic drugs), steroids, and pain relieving drugs are prescribed. In severe cases corticosteroid injections and topical pain relieving gels and lubricants are advised. Antibiotics to combat the infection are prescribed. Wearing of braces and supports to hold the joint in alignment during movement, cold and hot compressions are certain measure which are found to be effective.
Other Modes of treatment:
Certain other modes of treatment can also be helpful in coping up the symptom. Taking into consideration the symptoms in holistic way, homoeopathy can offer a good aid for the relief of the symptoms. The Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbs and synthetic derivates can also be beneficial in combating the complaints. Acupuncture which is the science of insertion of fine needles on the certain stimulating spots on the body has proved to be effective. Certain yoga exercises can also be helpful in relieving the pain and strengthening the muscles.
