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Gout Arthritis Facts

Gout is a form of arthritis that causes sudden swelling, redness and severe pain in a joint. It usually affects the big toe, ankles, knees, wrists and hands. There are a variety of risk factors and things you can do to help prevent or treat gout.

  1. Risk Factors

    • Middle-aged men are more apt to be afflicted by gout. Obesity, kidney disease, hypothyroidism, diabetes, leukemia, medications like diuretics and warfarin, radiation treatments and high alcohol consumption are risk factors. The consumption of purine-rich foods like organ meats, brains, anchovies and mushrooms can contribute to gout attacks.

    Causes

    • Gout is caused by excess uric acid in the blood. Uric acid is a byproduct of the breakdown of proteins. Gout occurs when the metabolism produces excessive uric acid or the kidneys do not eliminate enough uric acid in the urine. Excess uric acid forms crystals in the joints, which cause pain and inflammation.

    Prevention

    • To prevent attacks of gout, drink six to eight glasses of water each day to dilute the uric acid in your body. Other prevention methods include watching your weight so you don't become obese and avoiding foods high in purines. Moderating your intake of alcohol can also help prevent gout.

    Diagnosis

    • Based on symptoms and a physical examinations, a doctor can determine if you have gout. During an examination, the care provider will look for swelling and a restriction in the joint's range of motion. A blood test can reveal uric acid and white blood cell levels in the blood. White blood cells are a sign of an inflammation. Fluid can also be collected from the joint and analyzed for signs of crystals. X-rays are used to look for existing damage to the joints.

    Treatments

    • There is no cure for gout arthritis. Gout attacks and symptoms can be reduced by a good diet. Avoid foods containing high levels of purines and limit your intake of alcohol. Lose weight if you are obese. Do not cut back severely on dietary calories, since this can increase uric acid production. Take ibuprofen and acetaminophen medications to reduce pain and swelling. Colchicine can decrease joint inflammation. Uricosuric drugs can also be used to lower uric acid levels in the blood. For severe cases of gout, your doctor may prescribe corticosteroids to reduce swelling.

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