Reactive Arthritis: Infectious Symptoms To Be Aware Of

Urinary Or Gastrointestinal Problems

Urinary problems, which can be seen in reactive arthritis, may be the result of an infection of the urethra, which might be contagious through intercourse. Pain or inflammation while urinating is another symptom that should be treated by a doctor with an antibiotic if an infection is present. A gastrointestinal infection may cause diarrhea or vomiting. Some patients with reactive arthritis have bouts of abdominal pain, and bowel lesions similar to that of inflammatory bowel disease are detected through a colonoscopy.

Skin Problems

Skin rashes and other problems, such as erythema nodosum, may appear in addition to joint pain in patients with reactive arthritis. Erythema nodosum is a type of skin condition characterized by painful red lumps located in front of the legs below the knees. It occurs as a result of an infection within the body. Skin rashes may spread by coming in contact with an individual who is infected with one. Another infectious symptom of reactive arthritis is dystrophic changes or the deformation of tissue within the nail beds.