Gout
Gout is a disorder in which uric acid builds up in the joint causing pain. The disease often affects joints in the hands and feet. Uric acid is present in the blood and is eliminated through urine. In people who have grout, the uric acid level becomes elevated either because of uric acid buildup from increased uric acid production, or not enough clearance from the kidney through urine.
Uric acid can form crystals in the hands and feet more easily because of the cooler temperature. Once the uric acid forms crystals, it is attacked by defense cells of the body, causing inflammation.
Cause:
Factors that put a person at risk of developing gout includes high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, surgeries, chemotherapy, and stress. Consuming foods that are high in purine can also trigger a gout attack. Furthermore, the tendency to accumulate uric acid is often inherited.
Symptoms:
Gouty attack is often characterized by acute pain, often with sudden onset in the middle of the night. The area of gouty attack can show signs of inflammation, such as redness, swelling and warmth.
Diagnosis:
A thorough history and physical exam is vital. The affected joint is examined. Blood work can be helpful in ruling out other causes of joint pain. X-rays of the foot can help in determining the presence of gout, as gouty destruction of joints is unique in presentation.
Treatment:
Treatment of gout includes the following:
If a patient experiences repeated gouty attack, medication to control uric acid in the blood might be required. This is often performed by your primary care doctor.
Gout is a disorder in which uric acid builds up in the joint causing pain. The disease often affects joints in the hands and feet. Uric acid is present in the blood and is eliminated through urine. In people who have grout, the uric acid level becomes elevated either because of uric acid buildup from increased uric acid production, or not enough clearance from the kidney through urine.
Uric acid can form crystals in the hands and feet more easily because of the cooler temperature. Once the uric acid forms crystals, it is attacked by defense cells of the body, causing inflammation.
Cause:
Factors that put a person at risk of developing gout includes high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, surgeries, chemotherapy, and stress. Consuming foods that are high in purine can also trigger a gout attack. Furthermore, the tendency to accumulate uric acid is often inherited.
Symptoms:
Gouty attack is often characterized by acute pain, often with sudden onset in the middle of the night. The area of gouty attack can show signs of inflammation, such as redness, swelling and warmth.
Diagnosis:
A thorough history and physical exam is vital. The affected joint is examined. Blood work can be helpful in ruling out other causes of joint pain. X-rays of the foot can help in determining the presence of gout, as gouty destruction of joints is unique in presentation.
Treatment:
Treatment of gout includes the following:
- Medications. Prescription medications or injections are used to treat the pain, swelling and inflammation.
- Dietary restrictions. Foods and beverages that are high in purines should be avoided since purines are converted in the body to uric acid.
- Fluids. Drink plenty of water and other fluids each day, while also avoiding alcoholic beverages, which cause dehydration.
- Immobilize and elevate the foot. Avoid standing and walking to give your foot a rest. Also, elevate your foot (level with or slightly above the heart) to help reduce swelling.
If a patient experiences repeated gouty attack, medication to control uric acid in the blood might be required. This is often performed by your primary care doctor.