Disease
Gout
Overview of Gout
Gout is a painful type of arthritis that happens when there is too much uric acid in the blood. This extra uric acid forms sharp crystals in the joints, especially the big toe. It can strike suddenly, often at night and start causing intense pain and swelling. Though commonly seen in men and women, especially after menopause can get it too. If left untreated, gout can lead to joint damage and reduced mobility.
Types of Gout
- Acute Gout: Sudden, intense pain usually in one joint often the big toe.
- Chronic Gout: Repeated flare-ups that can damage joints over time.
- Gouty Arthritis: Long term inflammation causing joint stiffness and pain.
- Tophaceous Gout: Advanced stage with uric acid lumps (tophi) under the skin.
Symptoms of Gout
- Severe pain, often beginning suddenly mostly at night.
- Swelling and redness around the joint especially in feet or toes.
- The skin over the joint may feel warm and look shiny.
- Pain worsens with touch or movement.
- Symptoms often appear first in the big toe but may affect ankles, knees or fingers.
- In early stages, you might just feel discomfort or tingling.
Causes of Gout
- Too much uric acid in the blood forming crystals in the joints.
- Eating a diet rich in red meat, seafood or organ meats.
- Drinking alcohol or sugary beverages frequently.
- Health conditions like kidney disease, diabetes or high blood pressure.
- Obesity and sedentary lifestyle increase your risk.
- Family history of gout can play a role.
Complications in Gout
- Long-term joint damage from untreated gout.
- Formation of hard uric acid lumps called tophi around joints or ears.
- Kidney stones caused by uric acid buildup.
- Reduced range of motion in affected joints.
- Increased risk of joint infections during flare-ups.
Risk Factors of Gout
- Being male or postmenopausal female.
- Family history of gout or other types of arthritis.
- Being overweight or obese.
- Having certain medical conditions like kidney disease or heart issues.
- Using medications.
- Eating high-purine foods regularly.
Preventions of Gout
- Stay well hydrated to help flush out uric acid.
- Maintain a healthy body weight.
- Cut back on red meats, organ meats, and seafood.
- Limit alcohol and sugary drinks.
- Regular exercise to manage weight and reduce stress.
- Follow doctor’s advice on medications to lower uric acid levels.
Diagnosis of Gout
- Review of your symptoms and physical exam.
- Blood test to measure uric acid levels.
- Joint fluid test to check for uric acid crystals.
- X-ray or ultrasound to rule out joint damage.
- Sometimes, repeated tests are needed if symptoms persist.
Treatments of Gout
- Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain during attacks.
- Colchicine or corticosteroids for fast symptom relief.
- Long-term medications to reduce uric acid levels like Allopurinol.
- Dietary changes to avoid gout-triggering foods.
- Regular follow-ups to monitor uric acid and prevent future flares.
- Rest and elevate the foot during active attacks.
Prognosis of Gout
- With early treatment and lifestyle changes, most people live without frequent attacks.
- Long-term control is possible with uric acid management.
- Delayed treatment can lead to joint damage and complications.
- Commitment to medication and diet greatly improves long-term health.
Care at MyhealthMydoctor
- Personalised care plans for each gout patient.
- Expert consultations to identify and manage triggers.
- Guidance on diet, lifestyle and exercise.
- Support for pain management and flare-up prevention.
- Ongoing monitoring of uric acid levels.
- Access to advanced diagnostic and treatment options.
Some Important Questions Patients Should Ask Their Doctor During a Consultation
- What food should I avoid if I have gout?
- Can gout be completely cured?
- How often will I get gout attacks?
- Is it safe to exercise with gout?
- How is gout different from other arthritis types?
What Patients Expect from Doctors During Consultation?
- A clear explanation of what gout is and how it affects you.
- Honest conversation about diet, lifestyle and prevention.
- A personalised treatment plan based on your symptoms.
- Tips to avoid painful flare-ups in the future.
- Emotional support, especially if gout has affected your quality of life.
- Guidance on long-term management and follow-ups.