What are the common signs and symptoms of osteomyelitis?

Common signs and symptoms of osteomyelitis primarily include acute and chronic inflammation, fever, and pain. Osteomyelitis is an infection of the bone that can arise from various causes, including bacteria entering the bone through an open fracture, surgery, or the bloodstream.

Acute inflammation is characterized by redness, heat, swelling, and pain, which are responses to infection. Fever is a systemic response indicating that the body is fighting off an infection. Pain in the affected bone is often significant due to the pressure from inflammation and the infection itself. These symptoms can help healthcare professionals identify osteomyelitis early and initiate appropriate treatment.

While nausea and vomiting can occur in various medical conditions, they are not specific to osteomyelitis. Joint stiffness and swelling typically relate to conditions involving the joints rather than bones directly. Pulmonary complications are unrelated to osteomyelitis, as they refer to respiratory issues and are not directly caused by bone infections.