Septic Arthritis Must Be Treated Straight Away

Septic arthritis (infectious arthritis) is caused by bacteria or a virus attacking a joint. It is extremely painful and can cause joint damage if not addressed straight away. This type of arthritis can affect any joint but usually targets the knee and hip joints as well as the joints in the arms.

Septic arthritis can be caused by injury to a joint. If a joint has recently been traumatised for any reason, such as surgery, it's resisitance is lowered and infection may set in. These bacteria or viruses causing the infection may already be in the body.

As the germs reach the joints the synovial fluid has little resistance and infection can occur rapidly.

Symptoms of septic arthritis are swelling, acute joint pain, redness and heat, inflammation and flu-like symptoms. Typically children or older adults are vulnerable. Those with immune system deficiency are also at risk.

Treatment of septic arthritis must be started immediately to prevent further joint damage. As joint damage can be very rapid, never delay if you suspect you may have septic arthritis. Diagnosis is usually performed by taking a sample of synovial fluid around the affected joint for examination.

Treatment includes antibiotics which are matched to the specific bacteria or virus attacking your system. Unfortunately antibiotics have unwanted side effects which include nausea and vomitting. Your health care providor can tell you which side effects to expect.

Draining the synovial fluid from the affected joint is another form of treatment which is beneficial in two ways. It immediately relieves pressure - and thus pain - from the joint and also removes some of the bacteria. This drainage is sometimes done daily untill no more virus or bacteria can be found. If the joint is severely damaged, sugery may be required to replace it.

Natural ways can help you help yourself to heal septic arthritis and lessen joint damage.

 Always make sure your diet is nutritious as this will support the immune system and enable it to rid the body of the bacteria faster.

To further support the immune system, make sure you take vitamin and antioxidant supplements. Those found in even a healthy diet, aren't sufficient to repair a compromised immune system.

Get plently of rest and, as soon as the affected joint feels better, start a gentle exercise program to strengthen the muscles surrounding the joint.

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