Although there is no single test for reactive arthritis, your doctor may do the following to diagnosis you with the condition:
- Medical history to learn about your symptoms and any previous medical problems or infections.
- Blood tests to:
- Detect the genetic factor HLA B27. A positive result does not always mean that you the disorder.
- Confirm inflammation somewhere in the body.
- Rule out other conditions.
- Take samples from the throat, urethra, cervix, urine, stool or joints to test for bacteria.
- X rays to help diagnose reactive arthritis and to rule out other causes of arthritis.
Although there is no cure for reactive arthritis, certain medications 1 can relieve symptoms of the disorder:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) 2 are used to treat pain and inflammation. Ibuprofen and naproxen sodium, are available over the counter, whereas other NSAIDS are available by prescription only.
- Corticosteroids, strong inflammation-fighting drugs, may be applied directly on skin ulcers, or injected into a joint to temporarily relieve pain. Because they are potent drugs, your doctor will seek the lowest dose required to achieve the desired benefit.
- Antibiotics eliminate the bacterial infection that triggered reactive arthritis.
- Immunosuppressive medicines or biologics to stop the immune system from attacking the tissues.
Footnote
1. All medicines can have side effects. Some medicines and side effects are mentioned in this publication. Some side effects may be more severe than others. You should review the package insert that comes with your medicine and ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have any questions about the possible side effects. Go to reference
2. Warning: Side effects of NSAIDs include stomach problems; skin rashes; high blood pressure; fluid retention; and liver, kidney, and heart problems. The longer you use NSAIDs, the more likely you are to have side effects, ranging from mild to serious. Many other drugs cannot be taken when you are being treated with NSAIDs, because NSAIDs alter the way your body uses or gets rid of these other drugs. Check with your health care provider or pharmacist before you take NSAIDs. NSAIDs should only be used at the lowest dose possible for the shortest time needed. Go to reference
Diagnosing and treating reactive arthritis requires a team effort involving you and several types of health care professionals. These may include:
- Rheumatologists, who specialize in arthritis and other diseases of the bones, joints, and muscles. Your rheumatologist will also coordinate care between the different health providers.
- Ophthalmologists, who treat eye disease.
- Urologists or gynecologists, who treat genital symptoms.
- Dermatologists, who treat skin symptoms.
- Orthopaedists, who perform surgery on severely damaged joints.
- Physiatrists, who supervise exercise regimens.
Exercise can reduce joint pain and stiffness and increase flexibility, muscle strength, and endurance. Exercise also helps people lose weight, which reduces stress on painful joints. You should speak to your doctor about a safe, well-rounded exercise program, which could include:
- Strengthening exercises: Performed by weights or exercise bands to strengthen muscles that support joints affected by arthritis.
- Muscle-strengthening exercises do not move any joints, so they can be done even when you have inflammation and pain.
- Range-of-motion activities improve movement and flexibility and reduce joint stiffness.
- Exercises to stretch the back and aquatic exercises can help if you have spine pain or inflammation.
Most people with reactive arthritis recover fully from the initial flare of symptoms. They may have mild arthritis symptoms that last up to a year, although symptoms don’t usually interfere with daily activities. Some people will have long-term, mild arthritis. A few patients will have long-term, severe arthritis that is difficult to control with treatment and may cause joint damage.
Some patients will re-develop symptoms, such as back pain and arthritis, after the initial flare has disappeared. These relapses may be caused by reinfection.