In this article, we will describe 10 facts about gout.
Gout is a form of arthritis that develops when uric acid crystals build up in the body, and deposit needle-shaped crystals in and around a joint – leading to inflammation and joint damage.
90% of gout attacks occur in a single joint. The most common symptom is rapid, severe pain, swelling and redness often in the big toe; but gout can affect other joints as well – such as the ankles, knees, wrists, and fingers.
Classic gout in the big toe
Gout is due to high uric acid levels. Uric acid is a waste product formed from the breakdown of purines, which are substances found in many foods and human cells. Normally, uric acid dissolves in the blood and passes through the kidneys into the urine.
Gout is more common in men than in women. It usually happens during middle age, but younger people can get gout.
Postmenopausal women are also at increased risk due to changes in hormone levels that affect uric acid metabolism.
Risk factors for gout include:
Note. Rare genetic conditions (Kelley-Seegmiller syndrome or Lesch-Nyhan syndrome) can cause gout as they lead to increased uric acid levels.
Some medications can increase your risk of developing gout, such as:
Note. Please do not stop these drugs with discussing with your doctor.
Gout attacks often begin at night and can last for a week or two. Symptoms include intense joint pain, inflammation, and redness.
Some people may have frequent flare-ups, whilst others may not have another episode for years. However, over time, if left untreated, episodes may happen more often and last longer.
Without treatment, gout can become chronic, leading to joint damage and the formation of tophi; which are large deposits of uric acid crystals that can cause visible lumps under the skin.
Gouty tophi
If gout has a typical pattern, it can be diagnosed through a combination of medical history and physical examination. It may not need many (or any) tests.
But if doctors are unsure, they may do tests, such as:
Treatment includes medication to reduce pain and inflammation in attacks (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, colchicine, corticosteroids); and medication to prevent attacks (by lower uric acid levels, e.g. allopurinol, febuxostat).
Managing gout often involves lifestyle changes, such as reducing the intake of purine-rich foods, avoiding alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight and staying hydrated – to help prevent uric acid crystal formation.
The white chalky substance in bird droppings is uric acid. You know what it does to your car’s paintwork. Imagine what it can do to your joints!
We have described 10 facts about gout. We hope it has been helpful.