What to expect from anti-inflammatory medication for reactive arthritis

Reactive arthritis is joint inflammation that can follow an infection elsewhere in the body. Anti-inflammatory medicine acts on the joint inflammation, so tenderness, swelling and movement may improve gradually rather than immediately. It does not by itself treat every possible source of infection or other symptoms outside the joint.

The suitable option depends on the joints involved, your stomach and kidney health, blood pressure, and medicines you already use. A clinician may adjust the plan as the illness changes.

Follow the label or prescription and do not increase the amount because pain remains. Take only one anti-inflammatory product unless a pharmacist confirms that combining medicines is safe. Gentle range-of-motion exercises, rest between activities and a wrapped cold pack may make daily movement more comfortable.

Mention recent diarrhoea, urinary or genital symptoms, eye irritation, psoriasis, ulcers, kidney disease, heart disease, blood-thinning medicine and allergies at your appointment. Keep notes on joint swelling and how far you can walk or use the affected limb.

Arrange urgent assessment for fever with a hot swollen joint, severe worsening pain, confusion or feeling very unwell. Seek emergency help for breathing difficulty, facial swelling, chest pain, vomiting blood, black stools or a major drop in urine. Eye pain, light sensitivity or blurred vision needs prompt medical attention.

Ask whether your recent infection changes the treatment plan, how long to use the medicine, and what improvement should be expected. Confirm whether you need separate care for urinary, bowel, eye or skin symptoms.