Gout is a complex form of arthritis that can affect anyone, although it may affect men more. This condition is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness in one or more joints, often at the base of the big toe. Gout occurs when urate crystals accumulate in your joints, causing the inflammation and intense pain of a gout attack. Here are some frequently asked questions about this condition:
How Does Gout Develop?
Gout develops when your body has high levels of uric acid. Uric acid is produced when the body breaks down purines, and these substances are found naturally in your body as well as in certain foods. Normally, uric acid dissolves in your blood and passes through your kidneys into your urine, but sometimes your body either produces too much uric acid or your kidneys excrete too little of it.
What Are the Symptoms?
The main symptom of gout is intense joint pain. While gout typically affects the large joint of your big toe, it may occur in any joint. This pain is typically most severe within the first hours after it begins, so you might notice it suddenly.
After the most severe pain subsides, some joint discomfort may continue. Lingering discomfort is a typical experience for many. Later attacks are likely to last longer and affect more joints, which means management becomes a focus.
As gout progresses, you might not be able to move your joints normally. The affected joint or joints may become swollen, tender, warm, and red. This inflammation is a direct result of the urate crystal deposits, and it occurs because these deposits trigger inflammation.
What Makes Gout Worse?
Certain factors may increase the uric acid level in your body, triggering a gout attack. Your diet plays a role in managing gout, and some foods are higher in purines than others. Limiting these foods may help manage your symptoms. Factors that may trigger a gout attack include:
- Consuming red meats and organ meats.
- Eating certain kinds of seafood, like anchovies, sardines, and mussels.
- Drinking beverages sweetened with fructose.
Being overweight increases uric acid production and makes it harder for your kidneys to eliminate it. Medical conditions like untreated high blood pressure and chronic conditions such as diabetes also increase your risk. Some medications, such as certain diuretics used to treat hypertension, also may raise uric acid levels.
How Is Gout Treated?
Treatment usually involves medications and lifestyle adjustments. Medications are available to treat acute attacks and prevent future attacks by lowering uric acid levels, and your doctor will recommend a course of action based on your health status. Lifestyle changes, such as modifying your diet to limit certain foods, exercising regularly to maintain a healthy weight, and limiting alcohol, complement medical treatments.
Get Treated for Gout
Untreated gout may lead to worsening pain and joint damage, so managing the condition is a priority for long-term joint health. If you experience joint pain, it is wise to seek a medical evaluation, because it could indicate a serious condition. Contact a healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms and receive a proper diagnosis.
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