Reactive arthritis, also known as Reiter's syndrome, is an autoimmune disorder characterized by the typical symptoms of arthritis, such as pain and swelling in the joints. However, as the term implies, reactive arthritis occurs in response to infection somewhere else in the body. This disorder also involves two additional symptoms that may occur singularly or together---conjunctivitis and urethritis, or inflammation of the eyes and urinary tract, respectively. In addition to medications and physical therapy, diet plays a role in long-term management.
Understanding Reactive Arthritis
Reactive arthritis is relatively rare. In fact, the Mayo Clinic estimates that only 30 out of 100,000 people are likely to develop this disorder. Of this number, approximately 80 percent test positive for human leukocyte antigen, or HLA-B27, which, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, or NIAMS, indicates a genetic predisposition for developing this condition. Only 20 percent of people who inherit this gene will develop reactive arthritis after contracting an infection. Overall, men, most commonly those between the ages of 20 and 40, are nine times more likely to develop reactive arthritis than women.
According to the NIAMS, the most common bacterium responsible for causing reactive arthritis is Chlamydia trachomatis, which is acquired through sexual contact. Other bacteria known to trigger reactive arthritis affect the intestines or urinary tract, including Salmonella spp., Campylobacter spp. and Shigella spp.
The Diet-Arthritis Connection
Although reactive arthritis is associated with a genetic impairment of the immune system, diet also affects immune function and helps to keep inflammation in check. Fatty acids, especially omega-3, block the production of cytokines, chemicals that contribute to inflammation. Omega-6, also known as gamma-linoleic acid, prevents the conversion of arachidonic acid ingested from consuming animal products into other inflammatory chemicals called leukotrienes. A healthy diet for arthritis contains a balance of these fatty acids.
Generally speaking, strive to maintain a diet that includes a variety of foods and is plentiful in fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein. Limit your intake of sugar, fat, cholesterol and alcohol, all of which contribute to inflammation in excess.
Diet and Medications
Medications typically prescribed to treat reactive arthritis, such as corticosteroids, can inhibit the absorption of dietary nutrients. For instance, according to the University of Washington, corticosteroids can deplete your body of potassium while promoting the retention of sodium. To counter these risks, be sure to eat a variety of foods and talk to your doctor about the necessity for supplements.
Be aware that drinking alcohol can increase the level of uric acid in your system, which can interfere with certain arthritis medications. In addition, combining alcohol with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, including aspirin and acetaminophen, can lead to problems with the liver or stomach over time.
Food Allergies
There is no concrete evidence to suggest that certain foods make arthritis symptoms worse. However, food allergies may play a role in promoting inflammation. According to an article written by Denise Lynn Mann for ArthritisToday.org, people with rheumatoid arthritis tend to have higher levels of antibodies to certain food-derived proteins present in their intestines, which suggests an allergic response. Among the foods indicated are eggs, milk, pork, codfish and cereal.
Considerations
Talk to your doctor or a nutritionist about specific dietary recommendations that are right for you. This is particularly important if you have a previously existing condition, are taking medications, if you are overweight or if you suspect a food allergy.
