Viral Arthritis

Alternate Names : Virus-Induced Arthritis

What are the treatments for the condition?

Treatment usually includes aspirin or other pain medications to help with the joint pain and inflammation. This is all the treatment most people need.

If pain is severe in a particular joint, a joint fluid aspiration may be done. A needle is inserted into the joint to withdraw some of the joint fluid.

Immunoglobulins may also rarely be given. These are antibodies collected from other people's blood that help fight infections. This treatment is only used for certain severe cases.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Immunoglobulins are collected from human blood. Because of this, they can occasionally cause an infection in the person receiving them. Aspirin may cause an allergic reaction, stomach irritation, or bleeding. Other specific side effects depend on the pain medication used.

What happens after treatment for the condition?

A person may have joint swelling and pain that lasts for a long time, although this is rare. Once a person feels better, no further treatment is usually needed.

How is the condition monitored?

A healthcare provider will follow up with a person until the symptoms go away. Further monitoring may be needed for the underlying infection. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.