Which are the symptoms of Osteomyelitis?

Osteomyelitis is a serious bone infection that can affect people of all ages. It occurs when bacteria or fungi invade the bone, leading to inflammation and destruction of the bone tissue. This condition can be acute or chronic, and it commonly affects the long bones of the arms and legs, as well as the spine and pelvis.

Symptoms of osteomyelitis can vary depending on the type, location, and severity of the infection. In acute cases, symptoms may develop rapidly and include:

• Pain: The affected area may be tender, throbbing, or sharp. The pain can worsen with movement or pressure on the bone.


• Swelling: The infected area may become swollen, red, and warm to the touch.


• Fever: A high body temperature is common, often accompanied by chills and sweating.


• General malaise: Fatigue, irritability, and a general feeling of being unwell may be present.


• Restricted movement: If the infection affects a joint, it can lead to limited range of motion and difficulty using the affected limb.


• Drainage: In some cases, pus may accumulate and drain from the infected area, resulting in the formation of an abscess.

Chronic osteomyelitis, on the other hand, develops gradually and may have less pronounced symptoms. Some common signs and symptoms of chronic osteomyelitis include:

• Intermittent pain: The pain may come and go, and it can be dull or aching.


• Recurring infections: The affected area may experience recurrent episodes of swelling, redness, and drainage.


• Delayed wound healing: If there is an open wound or a surgical incision in the area, it may take longer to heal or show signs of persistent infection.


• Low-grade fever: Some individuals may experience a mild, persistent fever.


• Weight loss: Chronic osteomyelitis can lead to unintentional weight loss due to the body's ongoing immune response.


• Localized warmth: The infected area may feel warm to the touch due to ongoing inflammation.

If left untreated, osteomyelitis can lead to serious complications, such as bone death (osteonecrosis), joint destruction, septicemia (blood infection), and the spread of infection to surrounding tissues.

If you suspect you may have osteomyelitis or are experiencing any of the aforementioned symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. A healthcare professional will evaluate your symptoms, perform a physical examination, and may order diagnostic tests such as blood tests, imaging studies (X-rays, MRI, CT scan), or a bone biopsy to confirm the diagnosis and determine the appropriate treatment plan.