Understanding Reactive Arthritis

by Garth Hopewell

There is something commonly known as Reiter's Syndrome and is reactive arthritis. It is a type of arthritis that is known by swelling, redness, and heat in the joints. This is going to be especially in the spine and inflammation of other joints, urinary tract and even the eyes. Reiter's Syndrome is something that is related to the family of different arthritic conditions that is known as spondylarthropathies. This is known to bother the spine. Anyone that is suffering from Reiter's Syndrome will have fever, swelling, and ulcers in the mouth, weight loss and sores on the skin.

Reiter's Syndrome has no confirmed cause and can affect anyone of any age, gender or race. Some researchers believe that Reiter's Syndrome is due mostly to genetics because there are many tendencies that seem to run in families. About 75% of sufferers have a certain gene that is known to start the condition. This is a painful disease that affects young men who are white and around the ages of 20 and 40.

Reiter's Syndrome is also known to develop after certain infections in the small intestine, urinary tract or genitals. It is linked to salmonella contamination, so you need to take measures to avoid this condition by being sure that your foods are cooked properly.

This disease affects a number of parts of the body. There are different treatments that are used to help sufferers live healthy and normal lives. Medications like NSAIDS may be used to block and stop inflammation in joints. There are antibiotics and skin medications that can clear up the painful sores.

People with Reiter's Syndrome will also see urologists to deal with the urinary tract infections, and occupational therapists will take care of the joints.

Use dermatologists to clear up skin problems that accompany Reiters. Also physical therapists can teach you various exercises that can be done to help lower the pain and swelling in joints. You may also want to see doctors who specialize in the eyes because this condition can cause inflammation of the eyes too. If you or someone that you know is diagnosed with Reiter's Syndrome, also called Reactive Arthritis, you need to learn as much about it as you can so you can live with it and have a more normal life.
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