Gout

What is Gout?

Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints. It leads to sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, swelling, and tenderness in the affected joint.

Causes

• Excess production or decreased excretion of uric acid

• High levels of uric acid in blood (hyperuricemia)

• Diet rich in purines (red meat, seafood, alcohol, sugary drinks)

• Obesity

• Certain medications (diuretics, aspirin)

• Genetics

• Medical conditions like kidney disease, hypertension, metabolic syndrome

Symptoms

• Sudden onset of intense joint pain (usually at night)

• Most commonly affects the big toe (podagra)

• Swelling, redness, warmth, and tenderness of the joint

• Limited range of motion in the affected joint

• Attacks may last days to weeks and recur if untreated

Commonly Affected Joints

• Big toe

• Ankles

• Knees

• Elbows

• Wrists

• Fingers

Diagnosis

• Clinical symptoms and history

• Blood tests showing high uric acid (not always diagnostic)

• Joint fluid analysis: identification of needle-shaped urate crystals under microscope

• X-rays or ultrasound may show joint damage or tophi (crystal deposits)

Types of Gout

• Acute gout: sudden, severe attacks of joint pain

• Chronic gout: recurrent attacks with joint damage and tophi formation

• Asymptomatic hyperuricemia: high uric acid without symptoms

Treatment

Immediate (Acute Attack)

• NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen)

• Colchicine

• Corticosteroids (oral or injection)

• Rest and ice to reduce inflammation

Long-term Management

• Lifestyle changes: diet low in purines, weight loss, reduce alcohol and sugary drinks

• Medications to lower uric acid levels:

  • Allopurinol (reduces uric acid production)

  • Febuxostat

  • Probenecid (increases uric acid excretion)

• Regular monitoring of uric acid levels

• Treat underlying conditions like hypertension, obesity

Home Remedies & Lifestyle Tips

• Stay hydrated (drink plenty of water)

• Avoid high-purine foods (red meat, organ meats, shellfish)

• Limit alcohol intake, especially beer and spirits

• Maintain healthy weight

• Avoid sugary soft drinks and fructose-rich foods

• Apply ice packs during attacks

Complications

• Joint damage and deformity

• Tophi (deposits of uric acid crystals under skin)

• Kidney stones or kidney damage due to uric acid crystals