GOUT

Gout is a common type of arthritis that causes intense pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints. It usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe, known as the metatarsophalangeal joint.

CAUSES

Hyperuricemia, an excess of uric acid in the blood, is the leading cause of gout.

The body produces uric acid during the breakdown of purines. These are chemical compounds found in high amounts in certain foods such as meat, poultry, and seafood.

Typically, uric acid is dissolved in the blood and excreted from the body in urine via the kidneys. If a person produces too much uric acid or does not excrete enough, it can build up and form needle-like crystals. These trigger inflammation and pain in the joints and surrounding tissue.

SYMPTOMS

The main symptom of gout is intense joint pain that subsides to discomfort, inflammation, and redness.

The condition frequently affects the base of the big toe but can also occur in the forefoot, ankles, knees, elbows, wrists, and fingers.

TREATMENT

Gout medications are available in two types and focus on two different problems. The first type helps reduce the inflammation and pain associated with gout attacks. The second type works to prevent gout complications by lowering the amount of uric acid in your blood.

Which type of medication is right for you depends on the frequency and severity of your symptoms, along with any other health problems you may have.

Lifestyle and home remedies

Medications are often the most effective way to treat gout attacks and prevent recurrent symptom flares. However, lifestyle choices also are important, and you may want to:

Choose healthier beverages.

Limit alcoholic beverages and drinks sweetened with fruit sugar (fructose). Instead, drink plenty of non-alcoholic beverages, especially water.

Avoid foods high in purines.

Red meat and organ meats, such as liver, are especially high in purines. Purine-rich seafood includes anchovies, sardines, mussels, scallops, trout and tuna. Low-fat dairy products may be a better source of protein for people prone to gout.

Exercise regularly and lose weight.

Keeping your body at a healthy weight reduces your risk of gout. Choose low-impact activities such as walking, bicycling and swimming — which are easier on your joints.