Gout
•Last Updated: October 13, 2024
Gout falls under thePaincategory.
Last Updated:October 13, 2024
Gout is a type of arthritis characterized by the formation of monosodium urate crystals in the joints, which leads to pain, swelling, and redness, and it often affects the big toe. Its prevalence varies by population, and the estimated global occurrence is 1% to 4%.
Gout is marked by "gout attacks" that cause redness, swelling, and intense pain in joints; it typically affects one joint at a time, often the big toe. Symptoms peak within 24 hours and can last 3 to 14 days, and elevated uric acid levels are commonly present.
Gout is diagnosed primarily by examining a joint fluid sample under a microscope for the presence of monosodium urate crystals.
During a gout attack, anti-inflammatory medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and corticosteroids, can help reduce inflammation and pain. For long-term management, uric-acid-lowering drugs like allopurinol and probenecid are used, often alongside colchicine to minimize the risk of initial gout attacks.
Purines and fructose can raise uric acid levels; limiting them may reduce these levels, though the benefits for active gout remain unproven. Dairy products, salt, and weight loss may lower uric acid levels, but their effectiveness in managing gout requires further research.
Vitamin C and tart cherry juice may lower uric acid levels, mainly in people without gout, but they show limited benefits for people with gout.
Gout occurs when monosodium urate crystals form in the joints and typically results from elevated uric acid levels in the blood. Risk factors include excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, certain dietary habits, specific medications, kidney disease, and genetic predisposition.
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