Food Poisoning and Reactive Arthritis

If you have developed reactive arthritis following a bout of food poisoning or another kind of bacterial infection, you may be able to claim compensation. Call us today on 0333 358 3034 or get in touch online.

What is reactive arthritis?

Reactive arthritis (sometimes known as Reiter’s Syndrome) is a condition that causes inflammation in various joints in the body, including the knees, hips, feet, toes and ankles. It typically develops following an infection such as food poisoning caused by campylobacter.

Usually, reactive arthritis usually clears up within a few months; it’s rare for symptoms to last longer than 12 months. In the midst of the condition, however, the symptoms can be debilitating and have a significant impact on an individual’s day-to-day life.

Symptoms of reactive arthritis

The most common symptoms of reactive arthritis are pain, swelling and stiffness in the joints and tendons, usually in the feet, knees, toes and ankles. However, in some people it can also affect:

• the eyes (causing symptoms such as redness, pain, conjunctivitis and inflammation)
• the genital tract, causing discharge or pain with urinating

Treatment for reactive arthritis

After the initial infection has cleared, taking painkillers such as ibuprofen can relieve joint pain and stiffness. In cases where a doctor suspects you have reactive arthritis, they may refer you to an arthritis specialist (a rheumatologist). If the arthritis is ongoing or severe, you may be prescribed steroids or disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs).

If you have paid for prescriptions to help manage your condition, you may be able to claim the cost of these back as part of a successful compensation claim.

Campylobacter and Reactive Arthritis Compensation Claims

If you have developed reactive arthritis following a bout of food poisoning caused by a restaurant, manufacturer or another food supplier within the last 3 years, then you may be entitled to claim compensation.

Making a claim can provide you with compensation for your symptoms. If you have had to take time off work, you can also recover any wages you have missed out on. You may also be able to recover the cost of medical expenses you have incurred.

At Jefferies, our experienced and specialist team is perfectly placed to help you with your claim. Call us today on 0333 358 3034 or contact us online to arrange a free initial consultation.