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Symptoms
By Mayo Clinic staffSigns and symptoms of septic arthritis include:
- Fever
- Shaking chills
- Severe pain in the affected joint, especially when you move that joint
- Swelling of the affected joint
- Warmth in the area of the affected joint
If you're taking medications for other types of arthritis, you may not feel severe pain with septic arthritis, because those medications may mask the pain and fever.
The joints of your arms and legs, especially the knees, are most commonly affected by septic arthritis. In rare cases other joints, such as those in your back, neck and head, may be affected.
When to see a doctor
See your doctor if you have signs and symptoms that may indicate septic arthritis. If you're at an increased risk of infection and you notice signs and symptoms of infection, such as fever and chills, see your doctor right away. Prompt treatment may prevent the spread of infection and minimize the damage to your affected joint.
