Reactive Arthritis
Reactive arthritis often surprises patients because the joint pain appears days or weeks after an infection elsewhere, sometimes when the infection has already settled. I look for that timeline and pattern so treatment can be matched to the right diagnosis.
What reactive arthritis is
Reactive arthritis is inflammatory arthritis that can follow an infection, often in the gut, throat or genital/urinary tract. The infection may have been mild or already settled by the time the joints become painful.
Symptoms to look out for
Sudden swollen painful knees, ankles or toes
Heel pain or tendon pain
Red or irritated eyes
Pain or stinging when passing urine
Rash, mouth ulcers, fever or fatigue in some patients
Why this matters to a rheumatologist
A rheumatologist can confirm the inflammatory pattern, rule out other arthritis types and guide treatment if symptoms are severe, persistent or recurrent.
Signs I would like you to seek care for
For emergency symptoms please seek urgent or emergency care first rather than waiting for a WhatsApp reply.
Painful red eye or vision changes
Joint swelling after diarrhoea or urinary/genital symptoms
Fever, rash or feeling very unwell
Symptoms lasting beyond a few weeks
What a specialist review looks like
I ask about recent infections, sexual health where relevant, gut symptoms and eye symptoms, examine affected joints, and consider blood tests, infection testing or imaging.
Questions my patients often ask me
Speak with me
If you have joint swelling and pain after a recent gut, urinary or genital infection, WhatsApp my clinic and we can help you decide whether a rheumatology assessment is the right next step.
Other conditions I treat
This page is for general education only and does not replace medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.