Information and Tips on Gout

What is gout? Gout is a form of arthritis, which is also a uric acid metabolism disorder that can occur at birth. Uric acid crystals accumulate on the articular cartilage of the joints in your body such as those located in your knees, elbows, fingers and toes. When these crystals are deposited in those areas, they act like plugs that inhibit proper joint movement. The affected individual therefore experiences intense pain, discomfort and swelling.

Who Does it Affect?

Approximately one million Americans suffer from gout. Gout affects more African American men in the United States. Men and women between 40 to 60 years of age have the tendency of developing the condition—men develop gout earlier in age compared to women. Furthermore, those who have health complications such as hypertension, diabetes, heart disease and obesity are susceptible to gout. You can also have the tendency to develop the condition if you have regular intake of diets rich in fat, proteins and alcohol.

Joints commonly affected:

· Big toe
· Fingers
· Elbow
· Knee
· Spine

Symptoms are sudden and often noticed first thing in the morning. The first thing you will notice is excruciating pain and swelling.

Symptoms:

· Crumbly white matter erupting though the skin due to increasing amounts of urate crystals.
· Intense burning, uncomfortable stiffness and unusually warm sensation associated with high sensitivity and pain.
· Redness.
· Mild fever

Later stages of gout can cause mild to severe attacks, lasting from just a few days to several weeks. An individual in the chronic stage will frequently experience gout symptoms mentioned earlier.

Common causes:

· Poor blood circulation
· High levels of uric acid
· High levels of purines
· High levels of fat and proteins
· Alcohol
· Hyperuricemia
· Obesity

Diagnosis:

· Serum urate tests are provided if you think you have developed gout.
· Use of light microscopy determines diagnosis of gout.

Treatment:

Drugs known to administer the symptoms of gout are glucocorticoids, indomethacin, colchicines and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDS. Gout medicines often act as analgesic or anti-inflammatory drugs. You can also use topical treatments to sooth the swelling. There is no cure for gout, but you can definitely maintain relief of pain through medicines, therapy and lifestyle change.

Natural preventive treatments:

· Asparagus
· Mushrooms
· Spinach
· Cauliflower
· Strawberries
· Cherries
· Blueberries
· Berry extracts
· Celery

Surgery is the last resort treatment for gout and is performed in worse cases.

What to avoid:

· Aspirin – can make the condition worse. Choose analgesics such as ibuprofen and other types of painkillers.
· Alcohol – limit your alcohol intake (2 servings per day for men and 1 serving per day for women). Otherwise, quit drinking altogether.
· High-purine, high-protein and high-fat diets – this can increase risk of developing gout. Avoid eating too much meat, seafood, beans, peas and lentils.

This information is only a guideline and should not be taken as medical advice. Seek professional help if you suspect gout or are experiencing similar symptoms stated in this article.