I think it is important to understand that there are a great many kinds of arthritis. Some can be more serious than others and it is important to at least be aware of some of the symptoms.
The Onset of Septic Arthritis
Arthritis in general, means that your joints are suffering from inflammation and it can be extremely painful. Depending on how advanced your situation is, most of you can deal with arthritis by using a high-quality liquid glucosamine, exercise, and a good diet. Of course in some cases, that may be an over-simplified explanation.
When cartilage wears away, there is not only irritation but it can get to the point where there is no cartilage left to protect the adjoining bony structures. However, when we are talking about "septic arthritis" it is a bit different.
Typical Symptoms
Septic arthritis means that an infection has settled into a joint and the most common targets are the shoulder, knee, and hip. That is not to say that other joints may not be affected but those are the most common. Also, it strikes quickly.
The difference here is that the attack is from an infection that may have traveled from another part of your body. Usually, it is characterized by intense pain, redness, and even swelling may occur. Additionally, the affected person may have a fever that is correspondingly giving them "chills."
This is an Emergency Situation
If you have these kinds of symptoms, it is critical that you seek treatment immediately. Through the use of antibiotics, it can normally be controlled. If you do not get on top of this quickly, you are running the risk of total joint destruction. In most cases, the use of antibiotics will allow you to recover without loss of use.
This is not a typical situation where you make an appointment to see a doctor and cause even further delays. Get to a hospital where antibiotics can be administered through an intravenous method.
Recovery Time
This is not a situation that is going to resolve itself overnight. It may take a month or more to get septic arthritis under control. Don't be surprised if a doctor recommends that you remain hospitalized for a month or more.
No one wants to be sitting in a hospital. Nonetheless, given the consequences that can follow, you would be smart to do what the doctor says.
Just be aware that these are not the kinds of symptoms that can be ignored and the faster you seek treatment, the better off you will be.
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