Oct 20
2008Overview of Gout Symptoms and Treatment
Filed Under (Diseases and Conditions) by Ernestine Clagge on 20-10-2008
Tagged Under : Diseases and Conditions
Doctors have long understood gout to be a serious and painful medical condition. In fact, it is one of the earliest identified illnesses on record. Most of us, however, really have no ideal what it is all about.
Once considered a disease of the rich and gluttonous, gout is now known to be a form of arthritis that can cause severe inflammation of the joints. This swelling is often accompanied by sharp pain. Gout usually causes inflammation in the feet, ankles, wrists and hands, with the big toe most often affected.
Causes
Gout is created when the body produces an excessive amount of uric acid. This abundance of uric acid causes crystals to form in the synovial joint, which in turn causes the pain and swelling that have become trademarks of the disease. Some in the medical field claim that gout is one of the most painful types of arthritis. Although the condition was once associated with gluttony, health professionals, patients and the general public have become better educated about the causes, symptoms and treatments for gout.
How Do You Know if You Have Gout?
Sadly, the symptoms of gout can come on very quickly, and without warning. Many patients are surprised by the sudden onset of the condition. Pinkish red shiny skin around the affected area is common. This is due to the pain and swelling in the joint. The joint may also feel hot to the touch. If these symptoms are left untreated, they can last for over a week. Some people who have gout also experience lumps under the skin. This is most common in the area around the elbows, the heels, and the ears. These lumps are also caused by a buildup of uric acid in the body. Kidney stones have also been associated with victims of gout.
For some people, these painful gout attacks are a one-time occurrence. Many others, however, will suffer with gout attacks at regular intervals. The pain and swelling will appear and subside every few months. If left untreated, the condition can persist and create permanent damage in the joints.
It can be difficult to diagnose gout as the symptoms are very similar to those of other types of arthritis. Before your doctor determines how to treat your condition, he or she will have to make a positive diagnosis. To determine if there are uric acid crystals in your irritated joints, the doctor may take a sample of your joint fluids. In addition, you may be required to have a blood test to measure uric acid levels in your blood. Also, you will likely have a complete physical examination.
The Treatment of Gout
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.

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