Arthritis pain is never something anybody wants to deal with; however, while some types of arthritis are less serious and debilitating, others can cause severe pain and lead to major life disruption.
Unfortunately, septic arthritis is just about as serious as it can get. Not only is septic arthritis painful, but if left untreated, it can also cause permanent damage. If you suspect you might be dealing with septic arthritis, you’ll want to consult with a professional and start treatment right away.
Septic Arthritis Defined
Septic arthritis is unique, both in its symptoms and in the way it generally develops within the body.
Septic arthritis is an infection in the joint (synovial) fluid and joint tissues. It occurs more often in children than in adults. The infection usually reaches the joints through the bloodstream. In some cases, joints may become infected due to an injection, surgery, or injury. (Johns Hopkins Medicine)
In short, it develops when bacteria, viruses, or fungi infect the joint. This infection generally comes about due to a triggering event such as a broken bone, an infected wound, skin punctures, or something along those lines.
Unfortunately, because symptoms of septic arthritis can mimic other health problems, septic arthritis sufferers aren’t always aware of their condition immediately.
Symptoms of Septic Arthritis
The symptoms of septic arthritis tend to come on rapidly and may include any of the following:
- Fever
- Chills
- Fatigue
- Decreased appetite
- Generalized weakness
- Inability to move the limb with the infected joint
- Infected area warm to the touch
- Severe pain in the affected joint
- Redness and swelling
- Rapid heart rate
- Irritability
If a patient displays symptoms of septic arthritis, a physician may run imaging tests to rule out other concerns. They will then likely draw fluid from the affected joint with a needle. This fluid will be tested, and if the diagnosis is confirmed, a patient will need to start treatment right away.
It’s important to learn to spot the symptoms so that you can gain access to a doctor who can test and diagnose.
Early treatment can prevent permanent damage to any infected joints.
Treatment Options
In most cases, septic arthritis is treated with a variety of methods.
- Prescription drugs. Medication with antibiotics can get to work killing the bacteria or organisms that created the infection in the first place. Because time is of the essence, initial doses may be given intravenously. The IV will allow the meds to get to work right away and decrease the risks of permanent damage to your joint.
- Fluid drainage. Draining the synovial fluid around the joint can decrease the pressure, ease swelling and pain, and reduce the risks of permanent damage. Depending on the severity or acceleration of your infection, this procedure may or may not be required.
- Surgery. In some cases, surgery is needed to clean out the joint, remove damaged tissues, and/or replace the joint.
- Rest and recovery. As your body recovers from your infection, you will be required to rest the joint, take follow-up medications, and perhaps receive physical therapy to ensure no lasting damage occurs.
Not everyone with septic arthritis will experience the same symptoms or treatment plan. A competent and trained medical team can help you navigate this incredibly stressful time, weigh your options, and make the best decisions for your care.
That’s where Arthritis VIP comes in.
Contact Arthritis VIP for Support
Arthritis VIP is the best place in Toronto to seek specialized treatments for arthritis. To learn more about how to manage your arthritis pain effectively, or to schedule an appointment with us, please feel free to contact us today.
Dr. Mark Hawass and the team look forward to serving you.
