Reactive arthritis is an autoimmune disease that develops as a response to an infection in some other region of the body. Since its emergence is activated by another illness, it is termed "reactive". Most often, reactive arthritis takes place due to of the presence of some type of disease like bacterial infections, genital infections or gastrointestinal infections. Even food poisoning has been known to lead to reactive arthritis. It is often challenging to figure out the real cause, because the original illness has typically been healed before the signs of reactive arthritis appear.

Reactive arthritis is a disease that is inclined to attack individuals who are in their twenties and thirties. It seems that men are more affected by the condition than women. In addition, white men are more prone to develop reactive arthritis than African-American males, and this is because of dissimilar kinds of tissue. And finally, HIV-positive people have a better chance of being impacted by reactive arthritis.

This disorder can impact the spine, joints, urinary tract, colon, heart, eyes and mouth. A number of the signs of this disease are similar to other varieties of arthritis, especially psoriatic arthritis.

When a person develops reactive arthritis they will normally detect three separate symptoms. One of these is swelling and irritation in the major joints, resulting in inflexibility and lack of mobility. The next is inflammation of the eyes, or conjunctivitis, having to do with irritation and reddening of the eyes along with blurry vision. The third indication is known as urethritis, which results in trouble urinating. The individual will experience a burning sensation at the time of urination. Moreover, they also are inclined to urinate more often. Further signs of the disorder involve the development of a rash on the bottoms of the feet. The problems that arise will usually keep up for about 3 to 4 weeks.

The treatment of reactive arthritis must be undertaken quite carefully. Before going forward with any form of treatment, the physician will perform tests, both in the doctor's office along with in a laboratory. The physician will take stool cultures and urine samples, and will also order a blood test. Performing an MRI is also recommended.

Treatment for reactive arthritis needs to focus on establishing and eradicating the problem in the areas that have been impacted. Most effective route to manage the infections is via antibiotics. To take care of inflammation of the joints the physician may suggest making use of steroids and pain killers. If the condition is particularly serious, making use of an immunosuppressant is advised.