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Reactive Arthritis
Reactive arthritis is joint inflammation that develops as a reaction to an infection elsewhere in the body, often in the gut or urinary tract. It usually appears a few weeks after the infection.
Causes & risk factors
- Recent gut infection (food poisoning)
- Recent urinary or genital infection
- Genetic predisposition (HLA-B27 gene)
- Immune reaction triggered by the infection
Common symptoms
- Painful, swollen joints (often knees and ankles)
- Pain on passing urine
- Red, irritated eyes
- Lower back pain
- Swelling of a whole finger or toe
Tests & diagnosis
Treatment & management
- Treating the underlying infection if still present
- Anti-inflammatory medicines for joint pain, as prescribed
- Rest during the acute phase, then gentle exercise
- Physiotherapy as symptoms settle
- Medicines to calm the immune system for persistent cases
When to see a doctor urgently
- Joint pain and swelling after a recent infection
- Red, painful eyes
- Pain on passing urine with joint symptoms
- Joint symptoms that do not improve
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about reactive arthritis. It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Does reactive arthritis go away?
In most people it settles within a few months, though some have recurring or longer-lasting symptoms that need ongoing treatment.
Is reactive arthritis contagious?
The arthritis itself is not contagious, but the infections that trigger it (gut or genital) can be. Good hygiene and safe practices help prevent them.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.