RA: How Does It Affect Your Body?
Reactive arthritis (RA) is a type of inflammatory arthritis that can affect your joints, eyes, skin, and urethra (the tube that carries urine out of the body). It is also known as Reiter's syndrome.
RA is caused by a reaction to an infection in the body, such as a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or an infection of the digestive tract. The most common STI that triggers RA is Chlamydia. RA can also be triggered by infections such as salmonella and shigella.
Symptoms of RA include:
* Joint pain and swelling
* Eye inflammation (conjunctivitis)
* Skin rashes
* Sores on the mucous membranes of the mouth, throat, or genitals
* Urethritis (inflammation of the urethra)
* Fever
* Fatigue
* Weight loss
RA can affect your body in a number of ways:
* Joint pain and swelling: The most common symptom of RA is joint pain and swelling. This can occur in any joint, but it is most common in the knees, ankles, feet, wrists, and fingers. The pain and swelling can be mild or severe, and it can come and go or be constant.
* Eye inflammation: Eye inflammation, or conjunctivitis, is another common symptom of RA. Conjunctivitis can cause redness, swelling, itching, and discharge from the eyes.
* Skin rashes: Skin rashes are a common symptom of RA. These rashes can take many different forms, including red, scaly patches; sores; or blisters.
* Sores on the mucous membranes: Sores on the mucous membranes of the mouth, throat, or genitals are also a common symptom of RA. These sores can be painful and may make it difficult to eat, drink, or talk.
* Urethritis: Urethritis, or inflammation of the urethra, is a common symptom of RA in men. Urethritis can cause pain, burning, and itching during urination.
* Fever: Fever is a common symptom of RA. The fever can be mild or severe, and it can come and go or be constant.
* Fatigue: Fatigue is a common symptom of RA. Fatigue can make it difficult to carry out your daily activities and may interfere with your work or school.
* Weight loss: Weight loss is a common symptom of RA. Weight loss can occur due to a number of factors, including inflammation, fever, and fatigue.
RA is a serious condition that can affect your body in a number of ways. If you have any of the symptoms of RA, it is important to see your doctor right away. Treatment for RA can help to reduce your symptoms and improve your quality of life.