Gout - Symptoms and Treatment

Gout is caused by the buildup of uric acid in the joints it is a inherited disorder characterized by a raised blood uric acid level and deposits of crystals in and around joints. It is a disturbance of uric-acid metabolism occurring predominantly in males it occurs when the liver produces more uric acid than the body can excrete in the urine, or when a diet high in rich foods produces more uric acid than the kidneys can filter from the blood.

Causes of Gout

1) Build up of uric acid in the joints

2) Family history of the condition

3) Other diseases like diabetes , obesity, kidney disease, and sickle cell anemia can also cause gout

4) Exposure to lead in the environment

5) High dietary intake of rich foods that contain purine

6) Medications that may interfere with the body's ability to remove uric acid

Symptoms of Gout

Common symptoms of Gout are:

• Inflammation
• Pain
• Redness
• Stiffness
• Swelling

Treatment of Gout

1) Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories like: naproxen, indomethacin etc.

2) Corticosteroids

3) Colchicine and probenecid (Benemid®)

4) Avoiding alcohol and rich foods that are high in purine

Note: NSAIDs should only be used as instructed and following care should be taken for prevention from this disease :

• Drink plenty of fluids (especially water)
• Exercise regularly
• Maintain a healthy diet and healthy body weight
• See a physician regularly