Gout Overview

Gout Overview

By:


Gout is one of medicine's oldest documented conditions and was, until recently, one of the least understood.

Commonly, however, gout was identified with wealthy people who over indulged in fatty foods. This misinformation has lead to a negative stigma being associated with the illness. Gout is actually an extremely painful condition which is caused by inflammation of the joints. Wrists and ankles, as well as hands and feet, are often afflicted. Many people also experience a swollen big toe on at least one foot.

Causes

When the body produces too much uric acid, and this acid forms crystals that build up in the joints, gout is the result. The painful inflammation of the joints is the result of this accumulation of uric acid crystals. The negative image of gout being associated with over indulgence has definitely dissipated. The medical community and the general public are far more knowledgeable that they were and have come to realize that gout is a painful, yet treatable, medical condition.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

You may recognize gout by the suddenness with which the symptoms appear. You may feel fine before you go to sleep at night, but wake up with pain. Generally the joints are affected. They may be swollen, to the point of being shiny and reddish. And, of course, there will likely be substantial pain. The painful area may also feel hot, similar to an infection. If you notice that you have lumps developing around your heels, ears, or elbows, you may also have gout. These lumpy areas are also the result of uric acid build up. Victims of gout also sometimes report painful kidney stones.

The lucky may have a gout attack only once in their lives. Most, however, will continue to have attacks of gout over their lifetimes. It is important to seek treatment for gout, because, if left untreated, gout can cause permanent damage in the joints. Be sure to go to a doctor as each new attack of gout comes on.

Before a treatment plan can be outlined, your doctor will ensure a positive diagnosis for gout. Since the condition can resemble other forms of arthritis, it is not always an easy diagnosis to make. A complete physical examination and diagnostic tests are required for positive results. You doctor may take a sample of your joint fluids to measure the presence of uric acid crystals. Similarly, blood samples may be taken to measure the uric acid levels.

Treatment

Current treatments for gout have been very successful. This is good news for the half million people in the United States who deal with gout on a regular basis. It is likely that the doctor will prescribe medication. Allopurinol helps to control the levels of uric acid created by the body. In addition, colchicines reduce the symptomatic inflammation and pain. Anti-inflammatory drugs are also often prescribed. Ibuprofen is an example. Aspirin, however, is not recommended. Most doctors will also suggest a healthy diet and regular exercise to reduce the symptoms of gout.

If you suspect that you have gout, it is important that you speak with your doctor to be properly diagnosed. You can begin proper, healthful treatment as soon as you have been properly diagnosed. There is no point in waiting. See your doctor as soon as you can.

About the Author:
Ernestine Clagge is a columnist for a variety of today's best web magazines, on health news and senior health matters.
This article is available as a unique content article with free reprint rights.



Article Originally Published On: http://www.articlesnatch.com


Tags: , , , , , , ,

|

Loading...
Related....
Videos...

Recent Health Articles

Comments

Still can't find what you are looking for? Search for it!

Loading

Site Navigation:

Copyright 2005-2011 ArticleSnatch, LLC - All Rights Reserved.
Privacy Policy | Terms of Service.