Gout

Gout is a disease associated with impaired metabolism of uric acid in the body and the deposition of its salts (urates) in tissues.

Causes of gout:

1. hereditary predisposition
2. excess consumption of meat, fish, alcohol
3. obesity, sedentary lifestyle
4. kidney disease, diabetes mellitus, arterial hypertension

Symptoms of gout:

1. sudden onset of severe pain and swelling in the big toe joint
2. redness and increased temperature of the skin over the joint
3. fever, chills
4. pain lasts from several days to a week

Complications of gout:

1. chronic course with frequent exacerbations
2. damage to other joints
3. urate deposition in soft tissues (tophi)
4. limited joint mobility

Gout treatment:

1. diet with limited meat, fish, alcohol, table salt
2. fluid intake up to 2-3 liters per day
3. drug therapy to lower uric acid levels and prevent attacks
4. physiotherapy, exercise therapy, massage to improve joint function

Prevention of gout consists of a healthy lifestyle, weight control and regular examination by a doctor. Timely treatment can prevent disability.

Gout: causes, symptoms and treatments

Gout, also known as gouty arthritis, is a chronic disease characterized by acute attacks of pain and inflammation in the joints. This condition is caused by elevated levels of uric acid in the body, which leads to the formation of urinary stones and the deposition of uric acid crystals in the joints.

The word "gout" comes from the Greek "podagra", which means "trap, ache, weakness in the legs." This reflects one of the main features of this disease - damage to the joints of the legs, usually the big toe. However, gout can also affect other joints such as the knees, ankles, wrists and fingers.

Gout usually develops in people who have elevated levels of uric acid in the blood, known as hyperuricemia. Uric acid is formed from the breakdown of purines, substances usually found in food. Uric acid levels may increase due to ineffective elimination of uric acid from the body by the kidneys or excess production of uric acid. Factors that contribute to the development of gout include heredity, obesity, increased alcohol consumption, a diet high in purines, and certain medical conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure.

The main symptom of gout is sharp pain in the joint, usually starting at night or in the early morning hours. Pain may be accompanied by redness, swelling and tenderness in the affected joint. The duration of the attack can vary from several days to several weeks. After an attack, there may be a period when there are no symptoms and the patient feels normal. However, if left untreated, gout can progress and cause joint and kidney damage.

The diagnosis of gout is usually based on symptoms, a clinical examination, and a blood test to determine uric acid levels. X-rays and other educational diagnostic techniques can be used to assess the extent of joint damage.

Treatment for gout aims to relieve pain and inflammation during an attack and prevent further attacks. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used to relieve pain and inflammation. Colchicine, a drug that helps prevent the formation of uric acid crystals, can also be used as a medicine. To control uric acid levels, drugs such as allopurinol and febuxostat may be used to reduce its production or increase its excretion through the kidneys. It is also important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet limiting purine-rich foods and moderate physical activity. Weight management and avoiding alcohol consumption are also recommended to control gout.

In gout, patient support and education about the disease are also important. Patients are advised to consult a physician for regular medical monitoring and advice. It is also important to follow the prescribed treatment and take medications as directed by your doctor.

In conclusion, gout is a chronic disease that is characterized by acute attacks of pain and inflammation in the joints caused by the deposition of uric acid crystals. Proper treatment and management of gout can help reduce the frequency and severity of attacks, as well as prevent joint damage and complications. Early medical attention and adherence to treatment recommendations are important aspects of managing this condition.

Gout is a disease characterized by elevated levels of uric acid in the blood and deposits of uric acid crystals in the joints. It is associated with a violation of the metabolism of purines, which are components of foods such as meat, fish, cheese, legumes, etc. Gout most often occurs in older people (over 40 years old), but can also occur at a younger age.