Gout

Gout: causes, symptoms, and treatment methods

The basics of gout: understanding the disease

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by disturbances in the metabolism of uric acid in the body. The main causes of gout are the increased absorption of dietary purine excess and impaired excretion of uric acid through the kidneys.

It is characterized by a sudden onset with sharp pain, swelling, and redness in the affected joint; the presence of synovial inflammatory hyperplasia and the formation of uric acid stones under the influence of high uric acid levels.

Etiology of gout

Gout is a form of arthritis caused by the deposition of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to inflammation and pain. The main cause of gout is hyperuricemia – high levels of uric acid in the body. This can be triggered by metabolic disorders, excessive consumption of purine-rich foods, or kidney function impairments, including inadequate excretion of uric acid.

  • Hyperuricemia: high level of uric acid in the body, often caused by metabolic disorders.
  • Consumption of purine-rich foods: excessive intake of foods rich in purine bases can lead to an increase in uric acid levels.
  • Insufficient physical activity: lack of regular exercise can contribute to the development of gout.
  • Genetic factors: the presence of genetic predispositions may increase the risk of developing gout.
  • Kidney failure: impaired elimination of uric acid due to kidney dysfunction can lead to the development of gout.

Clinical picture of gout

The clinical picture of gout includes characteristic attacks of acute pain, swelling, and redness of the affected joint, usually starting with the big toe. These symptoms may be accompanied by fever and a general deterioration of health. Gouty arthritis manifests as sudden episodes of pain, often at night, and may last several days, after which the symptoms may subside and be absent until the next attack.

  • Sharp pain in the joints: Characterized by sudden sharp attacks of pain, usually starting from the big toe.
  • Swelling and redness of the joints: Swelling and redness may be observed at the site of the affected joint, accompanied by pain sensations.
  • Impaired joint function: Attacks of gout can cause a disturbance in joint mobility and function of the affected area.
  • Fever: Gout can be accompanied by an increase in body temperature and general malaise.
  • Burning and tingling sensation: In some cases, patients may experience a burning or tingling sensation in the area of the affected joint.

Expert opinions on the treatment of gout

Experts’ opinions on gout treatment focus on symptom control, lowering uric acid levels, and preventing new attacks. Effective gout treatment typically includes the use of anti-inflammatory medications such as NSAIDs, colchicine, or corticosteroids, as well as lowering uric acid levels through diet, medications, and sometimes agents that help improve uric acid excretion through the kidneys.

Experts also consider it essential to include maintenance therapy in the treatment plan to prevent further attacks. This includes regular medical follow-up, adherence to a diet limiting purine-rich foods, weight management, and avoiding alcohol. An individualized approach to gout treatment, based on expert recommendations, helps patients manage symptoms and improve their quality of life.

Diagnosis of gout

The diagnosis of gout typically includes a physical examination of the joints, assessment of symptoms and the patient’s history, as well as laboratory tests. One important diagnostic method is the analysis of joint fluid, which can reveal uric acid crystals. Radiological studies can show signs of joint and surrounding tissue damage, which helps to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of the disease.

  • Physical examination: the doctor examines the affected joint to identify signs of inflammation.
  • Joint fluid analysis: examining the fluid from the affected joint can help detect crystals of uric acid.
  • Laboratory tests: blood tests for uric acid levels and other parameters can be useful in diagnosing gout.
  • Radiological studies: X-rays or other imaging methods can show damage to the joints and surrounding tissues.
  • Joint ultrasound: ultrasound examination can be used to visualize the affected areas and assess structural changes.

Gout treatment

Treatment of gout includes pharmacological medications to relieve inflammation and pain, such as NSAIDs and colchicine. Medications aimed at reducing uric acid levels in the blood, such as allopurinol, may be used to prevent new gout attacks. Dietary control, including reducing the intake of purines, alcohol, and high-calorie foods, is also an important part of gout treatment. In some cases, surgical intervention may be required to remove the deposits affected by uric acid crystals.

  • NSAIDs and colchicine: Pharmacological agents are used to relieve inflammation and pain.
  • Allopurinol: Medications that lower uric acid levels help prevent new gout attacks.
  • Diet: Dietary control, including limiting the intake of purine-rich foods, alcohol, and high-calorie foods, is an important part of treatment.
  • Physical exercise: Regular moderate physical activity can help reduce the risk of attacks and maintain joint health.
  • Surgical intervention: In cases where conservative treatment is ineffective, surgical removal of uric acid crystal formations may be necessary.

Prevention of gout

The prevention of gout includes monitoring blood uric acid levels and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. An important aspect of prevention is regulating the diet by restricting purines, fatty foods, and alcohol, which can help reduce the risk of developing gout. Maintaining a normal weight, regular physical exercise, and avoiding stressful situations can also contribute to the prevention of the disease.

  • Diet control: It is important to follow a diet low in purines, fats, and alcohol to reduce uric acid levels in the blood.
  • Maintaining a normal weight: Being overweight can increase the risk of developing gout, so it is important to monitor your weight.
  • Regular physical exercise: Physical activity helps improve overall body condition and may reduce the likelihood of developing gout.
  • Avoiding stress: Stress can trigger gout flare-ups, so it is important to learn how to manage it and minimize its impact.
  • Regular medical check-ups: It is important to monitor your health, so it is recommended to visit a doctor regularly for the detection and prevention of diseases, including gout.

Fun facts about gout

Gout, although it is a serious disease, has some amusing aspects. For example, in the past, gout was associated with the “disease of kings” due to the excessive consumption of alcohol and purine-rich foods by status individuals, which led to the development of the disease. Moreover, one of the first descriptions of gout dates back to the works of Hippocrates in the 5th century BC, making this condition one of the oldest medical states described by humanity.

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