Gout
Gout is a form of arthritis caused by a build up of uric acid within the body. Uric acid is a waste product of metabolism (breaking down food to make energy) which is usually excreted by the kidneys.
Symptoms of Gout
The symptoms of gout tend to come on very quickly and then last for around a week before easing off again. They include:
- Intense pain in a joint
- Swelling of the joint
- The skin may appear red and shiny
- There may be peeling or flaking of the skin
- The joint may feel itchy
Gout is most common in the big toe, but may also be present in the heels, ankles, knees, elbows, wrists or fingers.
Gout explained
Gout is most common in men although can occur in women too. It is most prevalent in men between the ages of 40 and 60 and has a genetic factor making you more likely to suffer with gout if anyone in your family does. Risk factors include a diet high in some meats, seafoods and alcohol, particularly beer.
Certain medications such as aspirin, niacin, diuretics and chemotherapy may also contribute to the development of gout. It is therefore more common in those who suffer from high blood pressure, high cholesterol and cancers as well as diabetes and psoriasis.
Problems with the function of the kidneys, or high production of uric acid may mean that crystals develop within the joints which cause pain and inflammation.
Treatment
Gout is managed by relieving the pain and treating the condition with both medication and lifestyle changes.
To relieve symptoms, rest with the foot elevated and apply cold therapy to cool the joint.
Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID's) such as Ibuprofen can be taken in the first instance to decrease pain. If these are not effective, then your Doctor may prescribe Colchicine which helps to decrease levels of Uric acid. It does however often produce side effects such as nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In extreme cases, you may be prescribed corticosteroids, although these are not a long-term treatment.
Lifestyle changes should also be implemented to avoid flare ups of the condition. Eliminating or at least cutting down on the following may be helpful:
- Meats including liver, kidney, turkey, veal and venison
- Seafood such as anchovies, mackeral, sardines, herrings, mussels and scallops
- Vegetables including spinach, asparagus, and lentils
- Anything containing yeast extract such as marmite
- Alcohol - particularly beers and port
Ensure you also drink plenty of water. If you are overweight, loosing weight can help to decrease your uric acid levels, as can exercise.
