Gout Treatment
What Causes Gout?
Gout is a complex illness. It is caused by deposits of crystallized uric acid in the joint. What is uric acid? Uric acid is the breakdown of purines- chemicals found naturally in our bodies and in food. It present in the blood and is eliminated in the urine. However, for people who have gout, the uric acid builds up and crystallizes in the joints. Some patients develop gout because they produce too much uric acid, and others because their kidneys have difficulty removing normal amounts of it.
It is most often found in the big toe because uric acid is sensitive to temperature changes. Uric acid turns into crystals at cooler temperatures. The big toe is the part of the body that is furthest away from the heart, so it is also the coolest part of the body. As a result, it’s the most likely area for gout to occur. However, it can affect any joint in the body.
Often it is an inherited condition, yet there are other factors that put a person at risk including: diabetes, chemotherapy, high blood pressure, obesity, stress, surgery, and certain vitamins and medications.
Foods and beverages that contain high levels of purines can trigger a gout attack. Patients with gout should limit or avoid beer, organ meats (liver, kidney, etc.), shellfish, red meat, and red wine.
Symptoms of Gout
An attack of gout can be very uncomfortable for the sufferer. Gout is usually marked by the following symptoms:
Intense and sudden pain
Persistent discomfort
Inflammation and redness
Reduced range of motion
Experiencing Gout?
Diagnosing Gout
To diagnose gout, we will ask questions about your family and personal medical history. We will also thoroughly exam the affected joint. On occasion, lab tests and x-rays may be ordered to better determine if the inflammation is cause by gout or something else.
Treating Gout
The good news is, gout is treatable, and there are ways one can reduce the risk that it will recur. Gout attacks are initially treated in the following ways:
Dietary restrictions
Drink plenty of water and other fluids
Immobilize and elevate.
Medications or Injections
If gout symptoms continue despite the treatments outlined above, or if repeated attacks occur, you may need to see your primary care physician for treatment of any underlying problems that are not foot related, which may involve a daily medication.
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