Gout is a common inflammatory condition that affects the joints
It most commonly affects the big toe joint, but can affect any joint
Symptoms:
The affected joint becomes red, swollen and very painful
An attack of gout generally comes on very quickly
It generally affects one joint at a time
It mostly affects men and is rare in women until after menopause
Over time, the attacks of gout tend to become more frequent and more severe
Causes:
High levels of uric acid lead to gout
Uric acid is a natural waste product produced by the breaking down and building up of food and body tissues
Levels can be high when extra uric acid is not disposed of through the kidneys into the urine
This results in crystals forming in and around the joint. These crystal set up the acute inflammation
Common causes of high uric acid levels are: - Obesity - High alcohol intake - Intake of foods high in purine (shellfish, anchovies, sardines, red meat, offal) - Kidney disease
Treatment:
In the acute stages anti-inflammatory drugs are an effective to control symptoms. They do not however lower uric acid levels
Dietary changes and weight loss can help lower uric acid levels
If needed, prescription drugs can used to lower uric acid levels
Your Podiatrist can help with footwear advice and ways to help offload painful joints
