Gout is the painful inflammation of a joint, caused by the build up of uric acid within the joint capsule. Uric acid build up in the joints can occur when, as the result of an inherited condition, the kidneys are unable to excrete uric acid, or when the enzymes needed to break down uric acid are unable to do so. Several life style factors, including heavy alcohol consumption, diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure and the use of several recreational drugs can increase the likelihood of an attack of gout.
Gout has four stages; asymptomatic (without symptoms), acute, inter critical and chronic. The symptoms of acute gout develop quickly and typically involve one or two joints. Pain, which is usually crushing or throbbing, tends to develop during the night. The affected joints become inflamed, sore to touch and red. Although the initial attack may subside after several days, most people have recurrent attacks which tend to be more severe and last for longer. Some people’s condition progresses to the chronic stage, where painful and swollen joints are experienced almost constantly.
Historically, gout has been known as a disease of the wealthy. This is because excessive consumption of alcohol and other rich foods can cause gout. Uric acid is produced as a by-product of alcohol breakdown in your liver. Excessive alcohol consumption will therefore cause uric acid to accumulate within your joints. Foods such as sardines, shrimp, dried legumes, mushrooms, kidney or liver contain a high uric acid content. To prevent gout, you should limit your intake of these foods.
Maintaining a healthy weight is important for your overall health, as well as to reduce the likelihood of developing gout. Being overweight or obese means that the volume of toxins and metabolic by-products that your body needs to eliminate is increased, which means that your kidneys have to work harder. It is harder for uric acid to be excreted if there is a heavy load of other toxic metabolites passing through your kidneys. Keeping your weight within the healthy range and undertaking regular exercise will also help you to keep your blood pressure down. Hypertension (high blood pressure) is also a risk factor for developing gout.
Some medicines and drugs can trigger gout. These include diuretics, cyclosporine, levodopa, niacin and low doses of aspirin. If you regularly take one or more of these medications, you may need to speak with your doctor about changing your medications schedule. It is very important for your health that you do not stop taking medication without talking to a health professional first.
You should also ensure that you drink enough water, which will help your kidneys to flush uric acid and other toxins from your system. It is recommended that adults drink six to eight glasses of water a day to keep their body sufficiently hydrated.
If you believe that you are suffering from gout, or have questions about the condition, you should speak with your doctor. Arthritis support groups may also be able to offer information and assistance.
