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Types of Gout

Gout is a form of arthritis that results from hardened deposits of crystals of uric acid in the connective tissue and/or joints. It is also known as gouty arthritis.

  1. Types

    • There are two types of gout: primary gout (in which the cause of excess uric acid is unknown) and secondary gout (in which the cause of excess uric acid is known).

    Causes

    • Gout occurs when there is too much uric acid in the blood. You can increase the risk of getting gout if you are overweight, eat too much meat and fish high in purines, or drink excessive amounts of alcohol.

    Symptoms

    • In both types of gout, the deposits of uric acid crystals lead to inflammatory arthritis. This is characterized by swelling, redness, pain and stiffness in the joints.

    Diagnosis

    • After asking about your symptoms, your doctor will conduct a physical exam, as well as possibly extracting fluid from your joints to search for uric acid crystals. The doctor may also get a blood sample to check for uric acid levels.

    Prevention/Treatment

    • Eating a healthy mix of foods; staying away from considerable intake of meat, seafood and alcohol; and drinking lots of water are strongly recommended for managing or preventing both types of gout. A doctor can help ease or stop the symptoms by administering corticosteroid injections into the joints affected, as well as by prescribing medication such as ibuprofen.

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