Out Of Joint?

Luke Coutinho on Reiters Syndrome - reactive arthritis - and finding a way forward…

Typically, arthritis is a condition when joints become inflamed and painful, and mobility of the joints is reduced. Reactive arthritis (also called Reiters Syndrome) is a type of arthritis that is caused because of an infection in another part pf your body, mostly your intestines, genitals or urinary tract. Reactive arthritis targets your knees and the joints of your ankles and feet. Sometimes, the inflammation also affects your eyes and skin.

CAUSES & RISKS

Reactive arthritis, on its own, is not contagious, but it’s caused by some infections that are contagious and spread through sexual contact. Other infections that can cause reactive arthritis infect the gut. One cause is salmonella, that can come from eating food or handling objects that have the bacteria.

Here are some preliminary factors that increase your risk of reactive arthritis:

Age: This condition is more prevalent among adults between 20-40.

Gender: When it comes to food-borne infections, women and men are equally likely to develop reactive arthritis. However, men are more likely than women to develop reactive arthritis in response to sexually transmitted bacteria.

SYMPTOMS OF REACTIVE ARTHRITIS

Pain and stiffness in joints such as knees, ankles, feet, heels, lower back or buttocks.

Increased frequency and discomfort/ burning sensation during urination.