In the last post I described the basics about infectious arthritis. It can be caused by bacteria, fungus or virus. The warning signs to look for differ based on the type of germ that caused the joint infection.
Something to keep in mind is that people with chronic health conditions tend to be more susceptible to psoriatic arthritis because their immune systems are weakened. Also, people with an existing form of arthritis are more susceptible as the germs target damaged joints and certain treatments for arthritis, such as disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), suppress the immune system.
If the joint infection is caused by a virus the pain tends to be “all-over” as opposed to being in a particular joint. There is generally no fever associated with viral based infectious arthritis.
Fungal infectious arthritis pain and swelling may be localized or all-over and may develop slowly, over an extended period of time. There may also be a mild fever.
Bacterial infectious arthritis comes on very quickly with fever and chills. The pain and swelling will be very localized, occurring in on area of the body.
Infectious arthritis is a treatable condition. Obtaining prompt treatment should clear up the infection and leave no permanent damage. However, if treatment is delayed, the damage can spread to other joints and become permanent.
If you are experiencing pain or swelling in any joints, whether accompanied by fever or not, it is important that you check with your doctor to get proper treatment.
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