Infectious arthritis

Infectious arthritis is an infection in the joint. The infection comes from germs that travel through your bloodstream from another part of your body. Infectious arthritis must be treated right away. If it is not treated, it can damage your joints.

Causes

Infectious arthritis is often caused by bacteria. The bacteria can enter the joint and cause the joint to become inflamed. Other causes of infectious arthritis include viruses and fungi.

Symptoms

Symptoms of infectious arthritis include severe pain in the joint, joint swelling, and even fever. Sometimes, infectious arthritis can cause the skin over the joint to become red and hot.

Diagnosis

Infectious arthritis can be diagnosed by examining the joint fluid. The joint fluid can be tested for bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Other tests, such as blood tests and imaging tests, may also be used to diagnose infectious arthritis.

Treatment

Treatment for infectious arthritis includes antibiotics and often drainage of the infected joint (synovial) fluid. If the infection is caused by a virus, antibiotics will not be effective. In these cases, treatment may involve medications to relieve symptoms, such as pain and inflammation.

Prevention

Prevention of infectious arthritis involves maintaining a healthy lifestyle and practicing good hygiene. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and regular hand washing can help prevent infectious arthritis.

See also

• Arthritis
• Joint infection
• Joint pain
• Joint swelling
• Fever
• Inflammation

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