Reactive Arthritis

Reactive arthritis is an inflammatory type of arthritis that is triggered by an infection in another part of the body. It is characterized by joint swelling, stiffness, and pain. Reactive arthritis usually starts 1–4 weeks after an infection, most commonly in the gastrointestinal or genitourinary tract. It is a rare but potentially serious condition that affects the musculoskeletal, urogenital, and gastrointestinal systems. Treatment typically involves antibiotics to treat the underlying infection and medications to reduce inflammation and manage pain. With appropriate treatment, symptoms typically improve within months but may persist for years in some cases. Reactive arthritis is a serious condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment in order to reduce long-term discomfort and disability.