What Is Gout - A Basic Guide

Gout is what is known technically as a metabolic arthritis. It is a disease that occurs when a person has an excess of uric acid in their bloodstream. Uric acid is filtered out of the body through the kidneys during urination. However, the kidneys can only handle so much uric acid at once.

Excess of uric acid is then deposited into cartilage, joints, tendons and surrounding tissue. There, it will form into crystals which will cause inflammatory reactions and sharp pain when there is movement.

Typical signs and symptoms of gout include sudden and sharp pain, a burning feeling, swelling and redness and even stiffness of the joint. For some people, a fever may accompany these symptoms. Pain will be felt in two ways - when the area affected with gout is moved, and when contact with the area occurs. For example, when someone touches it you will feel pain from the tenderness.

Gout usually occurs in the big toe first. In fact, three out of four cases of gout attacks usually start with the big toe. Gout is also found in other joints such as the ankle, knee, risk, elbows, spine and fingers.

The condition is typically treated with medications to stop the acuity of pain in the attacks. Additionally, it will help reduce inflammation of the muscles. A diet is also created that helps reduce purine intake. Purine is the main cause for excessive uric acid in the blood stream.

In some cases there may be measures taken to help the kidneys better filter out the uric acid. Usually this is done by keeping hydrated, increasing vitamin C, and eating foods that helped the filtering process such as cherries.

Finally, there is no known cure for gout. However, the main way to prevent gout is to lead an active and healthy lifestyle. By eating a diet that is well balanced, provides minerals and nutrients, and including some regular exercise, you will best decrease the risk of getting gout.

Currently, the main focus of the medical community is to manage the pain of gout, to reduce the frequency and duration of the attacks, and help a person suffering from gout lead an active and healthy lifestyle.