What is Infectious Arthritis? Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

What is Infectious Arthritis?

Infectious arthritis is a joint infection caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. This condition is also called septic arthritis. It can lead to pain, swelling, and trouble moving the affected joint. Early treatment is very important. If left untreated, infectious arthritis can damage the joint. In orthopedic surgery, doctors often see this problem after joint injuries or surgeries. Because the infection can spread quickly, it is a serious health concern.

Common Symptoms of Infectious Arthritis

Symptoms of infectious arthritis can appear suddenly. However, they may also develop over a few days. Watch for these signs:

Severe joint pain, often in one joint

Redness and swelling around the joint

Warmth over the affected area

Fever and chills

Difficulty moving the joint

Fatigue or feeling unwell

Sometimes, children may refuse to move the affected limb. If you notice these joint infection symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Causes and Risk Factors

Infectious arthritis happens when germs enter a joint. Usually, bacteria are the main cause. However, viruses and fungi can also lead to infection. The most common bacteria are Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus species. These germs can reach the joint through:

Bloodstream infections

Open wounds near a joint

Joint surgery or injections

Animal bites or injuries

Some people have a higher risk of developing infectious arthritis. For example, risk factors include:

Older age

Weakened immune system (due to diabetes, HIV, or cancer)

Existing joint problems, like arthritis

Recent joint surgery or replacement

Use of injected drugs

In some regions, certain bacteria are more common. Therefore, local trends may affect the risk.

How Infectious Arthritis is Diagnosed

Doctors use several steps to diagnose infectious arthritis. First, they ask about your symptoms and medical history. Next, they examine the affected joint. To confirm the diagnosis, doctors may:

Take a sample of joint fluid with a needle

Order blood tests to check for infection

Use imaging tests like X-rays or ultrasound

Testing the joint fluid helps find the cause of the infection. According to the CDC, early diagnosis is key to preventing joint damage.

Treatment Options

Treating infectious arthritis usually starts right away. Doctors often use antibiotics to fight the infection. The type of antibiotic depends on the germ causing the problem. Sometimes, doctors drain the infected fluid from the joint. This can be done with a needle or during surgery. In some cases, physical therapy helps restore movement after treatment.

Antibiotic medicines (given by mouth or IV)

Joint drainage to remove infected fluid

Pain relief medicines

Physical therapy for joint recovery

Quick treatment lowers the risk of lasting joint damage. According to the World Health Organization, early care improves outcomes.

Prevention Tips and Lifestyle Guidance

While not all cases can be prevented, you can lower your risk. Here are some helpful tips:

Keep wounds clean and covered

Practice good hand hygiene

Avoid sharing needles or sharp objects

Manage chronic health problems like diabetes

Follow your doctor’s advice after joint surgery

Additionally, staying healthy and active supports your immune system. If you notice any signs of infection, act quickly.

When to See a Doctor

If you have sudden joint pain, swelling, or fever, see a doctor right away. Early treatment can prevent serious problems. Moreover, if you have a joint injury or recent surgery and notice infection signs, seek help. Children with joint pain or swelling need prompt care, too. Do not wait, as joint infections can get worse quickly.

If you suspect infectious arthritis, consult Dr. Mudit Nemani for personalized care. Early action can protect your joint health.