Reactive Arthritis – Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis

Laboratory Blood Analysis

Doctors often begin by ordering blood tests. These tests help spot signs of infection that may have triggered reactive arthritis. Blood samples reveal markers like C-reactive protein and levels of white blood cells, both indicators of inflammation.

Physicians also check for specific antibodies to rule out other forms of arthritis and look for the genetic marker HLA-B27, which is more common in those with reactive arthritis.

They may also investigate infections from bacteria such as chlamydia, salmonella, shigella, campylobacter, or yersinia.

Examining Fluid from Joints

A doctor may remove a sample of fluid from a swollen joint using a thin needle. The analysis of this fluid can:

• Measure the number of white blood cells, reflecting inflammation.
• Detect bacteria, helping to rule out septic arthritis.
• Identify crystals that could indicate other types of joint disease, such as gout.

This approach helps doctors distinguish reactive arthritis from other causes of joint pain.

Imaging and Scans

Doctors often order imaging studies—such as x-rays—of the lower back, pelvis, or other affected joints. These images reveal patterns of joint involvement typical of reactive arthritis.

They can also show any joint damage or rule out other diseases, such as iritis or chronic arthritis. Imaging serves as an important tool alongside lab and joint tests.

Treatment

Types of Medicine

Doctors often start treatment with medicines to help with pain and inflammation. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) reduce joint pain and swelling.

If joint inflammation is severe, a doctor may inject a corticosteroid directly into the affected area to quickly lower inflammation and make movement easier.

Some patients might also need immunosuppressive or anti-inflammatory agents, especially if symptoms last a long time. If a bacterial infection persists, doctors prescribe an antibiotic targeted to the specific bacteria.

Below is a table showing common medicines used:

Medication Type	Purpose
NSAIDs	Decrease pain and swelling
Corticosteroids	Strong inflammation control
Disease-modifying drugs	Manage ongoing joint issues
Antibiotics	Treat underlying bacterial cause

Exercises and Joint Support

Physical therapists teach exercises to build strength around painful joints and improve flexibility. Strengthening exercises stabilize the joints, while range-of-motion activities reduce stiffness.

Using splints or braces provides added support to joints, limits strain, and makes daily movement easier. Regular movement and therapy help most people recover joint function and comfort.

Getting Ready for Your Visit

Steps You Can Take

Before seeing the doctor, patients should find out if they need to do anything special ahead of time, such as not eating before certain tests. Writing down all symptoms—even those that may not seem important—helps ensure nothing is overlooked.

Bringing a list of personal and family medical history, as well as a current list of medications, supplements, and doses, will make the appointment go more smoothly.

Preparing a list of questions for the doctor is also helpful. Some sample questions include:

• What could be causing these symptoms?
• What tests will I need?
• What treatments might help?
• How quickly might the symptoms get better?
• Are there risks for ongoing problems?
• How can I manage other health conditions alongside this one?

Bringing a friend or family member can help patients remember the information provided. People facing arthritis, especially conditions like reactive arthritis, may see a rheumatologist.

Questions the Doctor May Ask

Doctors often ask detailed questions to better understand the condition. Some topics that may come up include:

Doctor’s Question	Purpose
When did the symptoms start?	To track disease progress.
Are the symptoms constant or do they come and go?	To identify patterns.
How intense are the symptoms?	To rate severity.
What helps or worsens the pain?	To find triggers and relief methods.
Have there been any recent infections?	To look for possible causes.

By thinking about these questions in advance, patients can provide clearer answers and help their doctor or rheumatologist understand the situation.