Gout is most common in middle-aged and older people. It rarely affects young adults or children. Gout can occur in both men and women, but it is more common in the males. Gout is more common in women after menopause, when the disease is usually more severe. Gout is a condition that causes symptoms similar to rheumatoid. Gout sufferers often experience pain in their joints and connective tissues. There is also swelling and inflammation of the lower legs.
Chronic Condition
Gout is a chronic condition with recurring clinical manifestations. Gout can cause joint pain that lasts from a few hours to a few days. Gout attacks can last from 7-10 days as the disease progresses. Gout attacks begin in the lower body, near the toes, heels, and ankles. Gout attacks are experienced by approximately 75 percent of patients with acute attacks in the area of the big toe.
Gout attacks in the area of the big toe are known as podagra. They involve inflammation, swelling, pain, and a sensation like burning. Gout attacks can be very severe but usually resolve quickly. These attacks are more common at night and usually last for between 2 and 3 hours.
Podagra
Podagra can also be caused by injuries sustained or extreme physical effort that affects the lower limbs. Gout attacks that are chronic and persistent can affect multiple areas of the body. Recurrent attacks can cause pain and inflammation in the elbows, knees, elbows and shoulders as well as the wrists and fingers. Both types of gout attacks can cause mild to severe fever and sweating.
Gout attacks can be triggered by obesity, inactivity, excessive alcohol consumption, and poor diet. Gout sufferers should limit their intake of seafood and meat to avoid such attacks. Fresh fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy products have been shown to reduce the frequency of gout attacks and prevent them from recurring.
Remember
Gout sufferers should reduce the amount of their meals and avoid eating before bed. Gout attacks can be treated with anti-inflammatory drugs. Corticosteroids are injections that provide quick relief for joint pain and tenderness. Probenecid, sulfinpyrazone, and allopurinol are some common medications that can prevent future gout attacks.