What Is Reactive Arthritis? Causes, Triggers, and Key Symptoms
Reactive Arthritis (ReA) is an inflammatory joint condition that occurs as a reaction to an infection in another part of the body, most commonly in the urinary tract, intestines, or genital area. It is not contagious but is triggered by the body’s immune system responding aggressively to certain bacteria. At IRIS Clinics, we frequently see patients who develop joint pain and swelling after recovering from infections such as food poisoning or urinary tract infections, making timely diagnosis crucial.
Unlike rheumatoid arthritis, which is autoimmune in nature, reactive arthritis is considered a post-infectious inflammatory response. The immune system, while fighting off an infection, mistakenly targets healthy joint tissues, leading to inflammation and discomfort. Though often short-lived, if left untreated or in genetically predisposed individuals, it can become chronic or recurrent, affecting long-term mobility and joint health.
Understanding the underlying causes and early signs of reactive arthritis is essential for effective management. At IRIS Clinics, we use advanced rheumatology expertise, lab testing, and imaging to detect and manage this condition before it causes lasting damage.
Reactive arthritis symptoms usually appear within 1 to 4 weeks of an infection. The hallmark signs include joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, particularly in the lower limbs. It can also affect other parts of the body, such as the eyes, skin, and urinary tract, making it a multi-system condition. The severity and duration of symptoms vary between individuals, highlighting the need for personalized treatment plans.
Early identification and intervention at IRIS Clinics can help prevent complications. Regular follow-ups, blood tests for markers like HLA-B27, and imaging techniques like ultrasound and MRI play a key role in evaluating disease activity and treatment response.
Causes and Common Triggers
Reactive arthritis is often linked to bacterial infections. Here are the most common triggers:
1. Gastrointestinal Infections
- Caused by bacteria like Salmonella, Shigella, Campylobacter, and Yersinia.
- Symptoms of the original infection may include diarrhea, vomiting, or abdominal pain.
- Joint issues typically start a few weeks after infection clears.
2. Genitourinary Infections
- Often associated with bacteria like Chlamydia trachomatis or other urinary pathogens.
- Symptoms include burning sensation during urination or discharge before joint symptoms begin.
- More common in younger adults but can occur at any age.
3. Other Triggers
- Respiratory infections and certain rare bacterial exposures can also cause reactive arthritis.
- Genetic predisposition plays a role, especially in individuals who test positive for the HLA-B27 gene.
- Environmental and lifestyle factors such as poor gut health can increase risk.
Key Symptoms of Reactive Arthritis
Here’s how reactive arthritis typically affects different parts of the body:
1. Joints
- Pain and swelling in the knees, ankles, and feet are common.
- Stiffness, especially after periods of rest or in the morning.
- Occasionally affects the wrists, fingers, or lower back.
2. Eyes and Skin
- Conjunctivitis (red, irritated eyes) or uveitis (eye inflammation) can occur.
- Skin rashes, ulcers, or thickened patches (keratoderma) may develop on the soles or palms.
- Nail changes like pitting or discoloration are sometimes seen.
3. Urinary and General Symptoms
- Burning sensation during urination or genital discomfort.
- Fatigue, mild fever, and malaise can accompany joint symptoms.
- In some cases, long-term inflammation can lead to recurring flare-ups.
At IRIS Clinics, treatment for reactive arthritis is comprehensive, focusing on relieving pain, controlling inflammation, and preventing recurrence. This includes antibiotics (if infection is still present), non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications. For persistent or severe cases, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) or biologics may be recommended to protect joint function and overall health.