STD That Causes Joint Pain

There are primarily two sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) that are strongly associated with joint pain. The one is reactive or venereal arthritis caused by chlamydia. It is also referred to as sexually acquired reactive arthritis (SARA) or Reiter’s Syndrome. And the other is gonococcal arthritis caused by gonorrhea. 

According to orthop.washington.edu, chlamydia is an STD that causes joint pain, mainly in men. While MedlinePlus states gonorrhea-related arthritis to be more common in women.

Government studies reveal chlamydia registering a staggering 1.7 million cases and gonorrhea, more than 580,000 cases in 2017-18. It has led to increasing cases of gonococcal and reactive arthritis across the nation. 

Let’s begin with chlamydia as an STD that causes joint pain. In chlamydia, the bacteria chlamydia trachomatis causes the body to experience an autoimmune disorder. It results in the body’s immune system attacking its tissues. This attack causes pain in the joints, primarily in the feet, ankles, knees, wrists, and even fingers sometimes. 

Reactive arthritis is more common among men between 20-40 years. Accompanying symptoms of reactive arthritis include eye infections and inflammation of the urethra (urethritis).

Now gonorrhea is also an STD that causes joint pain. In gonococcal arthritis, the bacteria Neisseria gonorrhea spreads into the bloodstream and then to other areas of the body. The bacterium then lodges itself between joints and grows, causing joint pain. The Joints affected include the knees, ankles, and wrists.

Gonococcal arthritis in women has other severe effects. It is more prevalent among teens and can infect the whole upper reproductive tract, causing several reproductive complications.

People can prevent an STD that causes joint pain by practicing safe sex. You can get tested with or without symptoms if you suspect having such infections. It can then lead to proper treatment and remedy at the earliest. 

Do get tested at the earliest and gain control over your sexual health.