Septic Arthritis – Causes And Treatment
Septic arthritis is a type of arthritis caused by bacterial infection. Although bacteria are overwhelmingly responsible for this ailment, septic arthritis could sometimes also develop from fungal and viral infections. Usually the knee is the site of septic arthritis. However, bacteria invading other body joints such as hip, ankle, elbow, wrist and shoulder can be affected by septic arthritis.
Septic arthritis causes
Several strains of bacteria might cause septic arthritis. However, most cases of this disease are caused by the staph bacteria. Septic arthritis develops from an infection in some other part of the body such as the respiratory tract or the urinary tract. In rare cases, bacteria entering the body through a wound could cause this disease. The bacteria introduced in the bloodstream penetrate the lining of the joint, causing infection. When the immune cells of the body move into the joint to kill the bacteria, the joint becomes swollen.
Inflammation of the joint exerts pressure on the joint and decreases blood circulation in the joint, damaging the cartilage and tissues of the infected joint. Rarely septic arthritis is caused by viral infection. However, compared with bacterial or fungal infections, viral infections are less harmful and they heal naturally. Weak immunity increases the risk of developing septic arthritis. People on immunosuppressive medications, including drugs for treating rheumatoid arthritis, have a higher risk of developing this disease. People with fragile skin or with skin infections such as eczema or psoriasis could develop this disease.
Symptoms of septic arthritis
Septic arthritis is characterized by fever, chill and joint inflammation and pain.
Septic arthritis treatment
Doctors prescribe antibiotics for treating the bacterial infection. To reduce the joint pressure resulting from fluid build up in the joint, the synovial fluid of the joint affected by septic arthritis is drained. People suffering from septic arthritis experience pain on moving the affected joint.
Low impact activities, as recommended by your physician, could help to improve the joint mobility. Stress might worsen the condition of the joint. Stress management through breathing exercise and meditation could help to lessen your discomfort. An immunity boosting healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and fish could help to heal the disease rapidly.
