GOUT
What is gout?
Gout is a kind of arthritis that occurs when there is too much uric acid in the joints. Uric acid is formed as a natural by-product of the body's chemical processes. It normally dissolves in your blood and is passed out through the urine.
When uric acid builds up, however, it can form sharp crystals in the joints. The body's immune system attempt to eliminate the crystals results in inflammation, marked by pain and swelling in the affected joints.
What increases the risk for gout?
- diet rich in purines, such as salmon, sardines, liver and herring.
- obesity
- high alcohol consumption
- high cholesterol.
- some diuretics or "fluid pills"
- niacin (B-vitamin)
- aspirin
- some cancer or chemotherapy medications
What is a gout attack like?
The onset of an attack of gout may be sudden. It often starts at night. The most common joint affected is that of the big toe, also called the "ball" of the foot, though other joints can be affected. The joint becomes red, feels hot and hurts. At first only one joint is affected, but over time other joints can become involved.
What should I do if I have a gout attack?
Get off of the joint and rest. You can put heat or ice on the joint. You probably will want to keep anything from touching the joint. Your doctor will prescribe medicine to stop the inflammation and relieve the pain.
What if I don't get treatment?
Untreated attacks of gout can last indefinitely. After several years tophi ("toe-fee") can develop which are soft tissue swellings of uric acid crystals. These usually form on the toes, fingers, hands and elbows.
You can also get kidney disease or kidney stones. The bone around a joint can be destroyed by gout.
What can I do to avoid gout attacks?
- A doctor can prescribe medicines to prevent future gout attacks. These work by reducing uric acid in the body, either by increasing the elimination of uric acid or by reducing its formation.
- If you are overweight, you need to lose weight.
- High blood pressure and/or high cholesterol needs to be treated.
- Follow a low-salt, low-fat diet.
- Avoid alcohol.
- Avoid foods that are high in purines.
- Drink lots of water. It can help flush uric acid from your body.
Adapted from American Academy of Family Physicians