Reactive Arthritis

Reactive Arthritis Reactive Arthritis Reactive Arthritis
Reactive Arthritis

What is Reactive Arthritis?

Reactive arthritis is an inflammatory form of arthritis that develops after certain bacterial infections, most commonly affecting the digestive, urinary, or genital tract. Although the infection may have resolved, the immune system can continue to trigger inflammation, leading to pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced movement in the joints.

It commonly affects the knees, ankles, feet, and lower back, and in some cases may also involve the eyes, skin, or urinary tract. Early diagnosis and appropriate rheumatology care are essential to relieve symptoms, prevent long-term joint damage, and help patients return to their daily activities with confidence.

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Reactive Arthritis

Common Symptoms

Disease at a Glance

Post-Infectious Arthritis

Post-Infectious Arthritis

Affects Big Toe, knee, Ankle

Affects Knees, Ankles & Feet

Appears Infection

Appears 1–4 Weeks After Infection

Usually Resolves in 3–12 Months

Usually Resolves in 3–12 Months

Genetic

Associated with HLA-B27

What Happens in Reactive Arthritis?

Reactive Arthritis Joint

  • Immune reaction after infection
  • Joint lining inflammation
  • Eye inflammation (conjunctivitis/uveitis)
  • Urinary tract inflammation
  • Risk of chronic arthritis if recurrent
VS

Healthy Joint

  • No post-infectious immune reaction
  • No joint inflammation
  • Normal, comfortable eyes
  • Normal urinary function
  • No long-term joint effects

Common Causes / Triggers

Chlamydia infection (genital infection)
Salmonella food poisoning
Shigella infection
Campylobacter infection
Urinary tract infection
Post viral infection

Lifestyle Advice for Patients

  • Rest during active inflammation
  • Gradual return to exercise
  • Avoid smoking
  • Maintain healthy body weight
  • Practice safe sexual health
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Lifestyle Tips

Our Specialists

Our team of experienced specialists provides expert care tailored to your unique health needs.

Dr. Anuj Shukla
Dr. Anuj Shukla Head & Consultant Rheumatologist
Qualifications MBBS (NHL MMC), MD (General Medicine, MAMC)
Designation Consultant Rheumatologist
Dr. Kishan Majithiya
Dr. Kishan Majithiya Consultant Rheumatologist & Allergy Specialist
Qualifications MBBS, DNB (Internal Medicine), DM (Clinical Immunology & Rheumatology)
Designation Consultant Rheumatologist and Allergy specialist
Dr. Priyanka Gaur
Dr. Priyanka Gaur Clinical Immunology & Rheumatology
Qualifications BSC, MSC(Biotechnology), PHD(Clinical Immunology)
Designation Clinical Researcher
Dr. Nirav Makwana
Dr. Nirav Makwana Doctor
Qualifications B.H.M.S
Designation Medical Officer
Dr. Divya Nagar
Dr. Divya Nagar Medical Officer
Qualifications B.H.M.S
Designation Medical Officer

Why Patients Trust Niruj Rheumatology & Allergy Clinic

Compassionate, evidence-based rheumatology care focused on long-term wellness.

Evidence-Based Treatment

Internationally accepted protocols tailored to each patient’s condition.

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10+ Years

Specialized Rheumatology Experience

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Compassionate & Long-Term Care

Dedicated management of autoimmune and joint disorders with continuous follow-up for sustained health improvement.

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Accurate & Early Diagnosis

Early detection prevents irreversible joint damage and long-term disability.

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Modern Diagnostic Support

Advanced lab investigations and imaging for precise assessment.
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Transparent Communication

Clear explanation of diagnosis, treatment options, and expected outcomes.

20K+

Patients Managed

Our Treatment Approach

Our Approach to Personalized Reactive Arthritis Care

Infection History Review

Infection History Review

We evaluate prior gut or urinary infections triggering joint inflammation.

01
Inflammation Develops

Targeted Inflammatory Screen

Advanced biomarker panels confirm reactive arthritis while ruling out other casues.

02
Customized Anti-Inflammatory Plan

Customized Anti-Inflammatory Plan

Tailored therapy eliminates active pathogens, rapidly suppressing severe joint swelling.

03
Sustained Joint Preservation

Sustained Joint Preservation

Regular clinical assessments track recovery and prevent chronic flare-ups effectively.

04

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Our Approach to Personalized Rheumatology Care

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is reactive arthritis?
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Reactive arthritis is a type of inflammatory arthritis that develops after an infection, usually in the gastrointestinal or urinary tract.
What infections cause reactive arthritis?
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Common triggers include Chlamydia infection and food poisoning bacteria such as Salmonella, Shigella, and Campylobacter.
What are the early symptoms of reactive arthritis?
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Early symptoms include joint pain and swelling, heel pain, red eyes, burning during urination, and fatigue.
What is the classic triad of reactive arthritis?
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The classic triad includes arthritis, conjunctivitis (eye inflammation), and urethritis (urinary inflammation).
Is reactive arthritis contagious?
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Reactive arthritis itself is not contagious, but the infection that triggers it may be contagious.
Is reactive arthritis permanent?
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Many patients recover within 3–12 months, although some may develop chronic or recurrent arthritis.
What joints are affected in reactive arthritis?
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Reactive arthritis commonly affects the knees, ankles, and feet and often occurs asymmetrically.
Can reactive arthritis affect the eyes?
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Yes. Patients may develop conjunctivitis or uveitis causing eye redness, pain, and sensitivity to light.
Is reactive arthritis related to HLA-B27?
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Many patients with reactive arthritis carry the HLA-B27 gene, which increases susceptibility to inflammatory arthritis.
How is reactive arthritis treated?
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Treatment includes anti-inflammatory medicines, antibiotics if infection is present, physiotherapy, and DMARDs in persistent disease.

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