Septic Arthritis Treatment
Unlike other forms of arthritis such as osteoarthritis, septic arthritis can usually be treated and cured as long as treatment is administered within 24-48 hours.
Septic arthritis should be treated as a medical emergency as permanent joint damage can occur if prompt and effective treatment is not given.
The same treatment is used as for all types of invasive staphylococcal infections and involves injections of antibiotics known as intravenous antibiotics.
If you develop septic arthritis you may be given a seven to ten day course of intravenous antibiotics, and you will probably have to spend this time in hospital as other key functions of your body will need to be supported during treatment.
The antibiotic that is usually used to treat septic arthritis is known as nafcillin. Nafcillin has mild side effects which include nausea and vomiting, along with general abdominal pain.
However, if septic arthritis is caused by MRSA (meticillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus), another antibiotic known as vancomycin may be administered. Although side effects of vancomycin are rare they can be more serious than nafcillin.
Side effects of vancomycin may include:
- Breathing difficulties
- Allergic reactions including hives, rashes and swelling of the face
- Hearing loss
- A change in urine color
- Dizziness
- Peeling skin
- Nose or gum bleeds
- Weakness or fatigue
If you suspect you have septic arthritis you should get to the emergency room as quickly as possible for diagnosis and treatment.
Unlike other forms of arthritis such as osteoarthritis, septic arthritis can usually be treated and cured as long as treatment is administered within 24-48 hours.
Septic arthritis should be treated as a medical emergency as permanent joint damage can occur if prompt and effective treatment is not given.
The same treatment is used as for all types of invasive staphylococcal infections and involves injections of antibiotics known as intravenous antibiotics.
If you develop septic arthritis you may be given a seven to ten day course of intravenous antibiotics, and you will probably have to spend this time in hospital as other key functions of your body will need to be supported during treatment.
The antibiotic that is usually used to treat septic arthritis is known as nafcillin. Nafcillin has mild side effects which include nausea and vomiting, along with general abdominal pain.
However, if septic arthritis is caused by MRSA (meticillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus), another antibiotic known as vancomycin may be prescribed. Although side effects of vancomycin are rare they can be more serious than nafcillin.
Side effects of vancomycin may include:
Breathing difficulties
Allergic reactions including hives, rashes and swelling of the face
Hearing loss
A change in urine color
Dizziness
Peeling skin
Nose or gum bleeds
Weakness or fatigue
If you suspect you have septic arthritis you should get to the emergency room as quickly as possible for diagnosis and treatment.
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