Reactive arthritis is a type of arthritis that affects the joints, urethra and the eyes, states MedlinePlus, a service of the National Institutes of Health. In certain cases, reactive arthritis may cause sores in the mouth or skin. The cause of reactive arthritis is unknown, but it typically occurs in men following a bacterial infection. Reactive arthritis may also run in families. Symptoms include joint and heel pain, eye pain and discharge, and genital pain and incontinence, states FamilyDoctor.org. Early diagnosis and treatment of reactive arthritis is necessary to prevent complications.
Aortic Insufficiency
The aorta is the largest artery leaving the heart and supplies a large part of the body with oxygen-rich blood. To prevent the backflow of blood into the heart, a heart valve between the heart and the aorta closes when the heart relaxes. MedlinePlus states that reactive arthritis can damage this valve and allow the backflow of blood from the aorta into the heart. Left untreated, aortic insufficiency can cause the widening of the left chamber of the heart and make it less effective in pumping blood to the rest of the body. This can cause a patient to experience shortness of breath, chest pain, fainting and fatigue. Most cases can be treated with medication; however, surgery may be necessary in more severe cases.
Arrhythmias
In rare cases, reactive arthritis may cause an irregular heartbeat, or arrhythmia, states MedlinePlus. This typically occurs after aortic insufficiency has been present for a long period of time. As the heart widens, due to aortic insufficiency, the nerves in the heart that regulate its beating can stretch. Stretching this intricate system of nerves that control heart rate can result in an arrhythmia. Thus, a patient experiencing palpitations, an irregular heart rate, lightheadedness or dizziness should see a doctor for the proper diagnosis and treatment.
Uveitis
Uveitis is the swelling and irritation of the uvea, which is the middle layer of the eye that supplies oxygen-rich blood to the retina. Uveitis is a possible complication of reactive arthritis, according to MedlinePlus. A patient with uveitis may experience blurred vision, floating spots in the vision, eye pain, redness in the eye and sensitivity to bright light. Treatment of uveitis is aimed at treating reactive arthritis. However, treatment may also involve dark glasses, eyedrops and ointments.
