Gout is a painful and debilitating condition that affects millions worldwide. Gout is a form of arthritis that causes sudden flares of joint tenderness and pain. Gout can be controlled with medications that reduce its severity and relieve the pain. Gout can be caused by a buildup of urate crystals in a particular joint. These crystals form when the body’s levels of uric acid is high. Uric acid is broken down by the blood and excreted as urine in the kidneys. People who produce too much uric acids or fail to excrete enough uric acid may develop painful urate crystals in certain joints.
Gout Signs
Gout is characterized by joint pain, most commonly in the big toe. Gout can also cause pain in the knees, ankles or wrists. Gout attacks are often sudden and intense, with no warning. After the initial attack, the pain may last for several weeks. Gout sufferers may experience reddening and swelling in the affected joints. Corticosteroid medications such as prednisone are the most recent treatments for gout. These medications can help reduce joint inflammation and pain. Corticosteroids can be taken orally or intramuscularly.
Gout can also be treated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID’s) or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory. These medications are available in over-the counter versions such as naproxen or ibuprofen. To treat severe pain, NSAIDs can also be prescribed. Gout sufferers who experience frequent flares may need medication to prevent further flares.
Uric Acid
These medications work by blocking the body’s uric acid production, which prevents painful attacks from happening or reduces their frequency. Side effects can be harmful to your health. Corticosteroids can make patients more susceptible to illness and cause thinning bones. NSAIDs can cause stomach pain and increase the risk of stomach ulcers. Blocking uric acid can lead to low blood counts, skin rash, and impaired liver function.
Gout can be caused by a variety of factors. Gout is often caused by excessive alcohol consumption. Gout can also be caused by hypertension, diabetes, and narrowing the arteries. Gout flares can also be increased by daily use of aspirin and daily diuretics. Gout is more common in men with a history of gout attacks. Gout is most common in men between the ages of 40 and 50. Gout can also be experienced by women, but it usually occurs after menopause.