Gout, What should you know?

What is Gout?

Gout is a systemic disease which occurs throughout the body, it is caused by hyperuricemia, an elevated level of uric acid. This occurs when the liver produces more uric acid than the body can get dispel through urine, or a persons diet is so rich the kidneys cannot filter uric acid from the blood. The main cause of gout is a buildup of uric acid in the joints.

What are the signs and symptoms of gout?

Gout usually develops in the joint of the first toe (big toe). Symptoms include:

• Inflammation
• Pain
• Redness
• Stiffness
• Swelling

Touching or moving the toe may be intensely painful. So painful that patients often say having as much as a bed sheet over the toe increases the pain. Gout develops quickly (sometimes in 1 day) and typically occur in only one joint at a time. Rarely, symptoms develop in two or three joints simultaneously. If widespread symptoms occur, the condition is probably not gout. If left untreated, gout can damage joints and cause disability.

Can Gout be treated?

Yes, the goal is to decrease the amount of uric acid in the joints, helping to reduce symptoms and prevent further attacks. Left untreated, affected joints may be damaged, causing disability. In most cases, gout is not treated unless it occurs frequently. Treatment may involve nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories.

More Information

Arthritis
Osteoarthritis
Rheumatoid Arthritis