Gout occurs when uric a crystal are deposited into joint when the serum levels are high. The pain of gout comes from the inflammatory reaction to those crystals. Less of the foodstuff that raise the uric acid levels need to be eaten.
Gout is a form of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints.
Diagnosis:
- Medical history and physical examination: Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and any family history of gout. They will also perform a physical examination to assess joint inflammation and tenderness.
- Blood tests: A blood test can measure the level of uric acid in your blood. However, it’s important to note that high levels of uric acid do not necessarily mean you have gout, and some people with gout have normal uric acid levels.
- Joint fluid analysis: Your doctor may use a needle to withdraw fluid from an inflamed joint. This fluid can be examined under a microscope to check for uric acid crystals, which are a definitive sign of gout.
Treatment:
- Medications for acute gout attacks:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): These drugs can help reduce pain and inflammation during an acute gout attack.
- Colchicine: It is an alternative option for pain relief if NSAIDs are not suitable or tolerated.
- Corticosteroids: If NSAIDs or colchicine are ineffective or contraindicated, corticosteroids may be prescribed either orally or injected into the affected joint.
- Medications to prevent future gout attacks:
- Uric acid-lowering medications: Drugs such as allopurinol, febuxostat, and probenecid are commonly used to lower uric acid levels in the blood, thus reducing the frequency and severity of gout attacks. These medications are usually taken on a long-term basis.
- Colchicine or low-dose NSAIDs: To prevent gout attacks when starting uric acid-lowering medications, a short-term course of colchicine or low-dose NSAIDs may be prescribed.
- Lifestyle and dietary changes:
- Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids, primarily water, to help flush out uric acid from your system.
- Diet modifications: Limit your intake of high-purine foods, such as red meat, seafood, organ meats, and certain vegetables like asparagus and mushrooms. Also, limit alcohol consumption, particularly beer.
- Weight management: Maintain a healthy weight to reduce the risk of gout attacks.
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