Gout is a disorder caused due to increase in uric acid or sodium urate in blood. Learn more about causes, symptoms and dealing with gout.
Gout is a kind of arthritis which affects mainly feet and ankle joints. It can also affect other parts of the body. This disorder is more common in men as compared to women. It causes pain and swelling in joints. This disorder can occur at any age. However, an obese person may be at a higher risk. Read on and know more about gout, its causes, symptoms and treatments.
What is gout?
Gout is also known as metabolic arthritis. Most of the times it affects the area near the bigger toe. It is caused due to increase in level of sodium urate or uric acid in blood. Excessive uric acid or sodium urate in blood leads to formation of crystals. These crystals are formed as it is not possible for body to maintain the solubility of excessive uric acid or sodium urate. Gout can be diagnosed through blood tests and x-rays. Blood tests help to detect the increase in uric acid level which causes gout.
Causes of gout
Here is a list of some of the common causes of gout. Being aware of the causes will make you analyse the symptoms well.
- Illness or surgeries
- Joint injuries
- Excessive dehydration
- Obesity
- Genetic factors
- Excessive intake of alcoholic drinks
- Contact with lead in surroundings
- Some medications and drugs
Symptoms of gout
Here is a list of some of the symptoms of gout which will be helpful for early diagnosis and treatment. Most of these symptoms can be observed near the leg as compared to other parts of body.
- Swelling
- Joint pain
- Irritation near the affected area
- Flushing of the affected area
- Stiffness in joints
- Disability to do normal movements of joints
- Development of pus in the affected area in chronic stage
Dealing with gout
Early diagnosis and treatment is important in case of gout as it can result in damage to affected joint. Have a look at how symptoms of gout can be prevented.
- Intake of medicines prescribed by doctor
- Avoiding rich food
- Weight loss
- Avoiding alcohol consumption and increasing intake of other fluids
Research and development is still being undertaken by experts to suggest better ways to treat gout. However to be on a safer side it is necessary to do compromises in diet for healthy life. Small changes in lifestyle like regular exercise will keep you away from not only gout but also other disorders. It is very essential to take care of health to keep away from dreadful disorders. These small changes will help you get a fit body, good look and good feeling from inside.
Have you come across any person dealing with gout? How do you treat swelling and pain in joints? How can gout affect mental balance? To share your tips, views, and experiences, click here.
