5ths disease arthritis

mamatofour

hello, I am 29 years old and our household just went through 5ths disease/parvovirus/slapped cheeks disease, and I was the last one to get it and it’s left me with arthritis. I’ve researched and researched but am feeling pretty hopeless. Is arthritis from 5ths common? Is it going to last forever? Is it an autoimmune condition? Any other tips/advice out there for me?
Thank you!

helpline_team

Hello @mamatofour, sorry to hear you’ve all been through that, and that you’re now struggling with joint pain. Arthritis Foundation information shows that as many as 78% of adults who experience fifths will develop joint pain and swelling one to three weeks following the initial infection. Joint symptoms usually resolve in a week or two but in some adults, it can last longer, but not forever. I have included information on reactive arthritis, which can occur after an infection, and the treatments to manage it, which we’d recommend you discuss with your doctor. Hope it helps. https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/managing-symptoms/managing-your-pain/

https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/conditions/reactive-arthritis/

Thanks, Natalie, Helpline Advisor.