What Is Gout?
Have you been awakened at night by a hot, painful feeling in you big toe or ankle? Did the painful joint appear swollen and red (inflamed)? These can be symptoms of a gout attack. Gout is a disease that affects the joints. Left untreated, it can lead to painful foot deformity and even kidney problems. The good news is that by treating gout early, you can relieve pain and help prevent future problems. Gout can usually be treated with medication and proper diet. In severe cases, surgery may be needed.
The most common area for gout to appear is the base of the big toe.
What Causes Gout?
Gout is caused by an excess of uric acid (a waste product made by the body). The uric acid forms crystals that collect in the joints, bringing on a gout attack. If you have many gout attacks, crystals may form large deposits called tophi. Tophi can damage joints and cause deformity. Gout often shows as an inflamed joint.
Who Is at Risk for Gout?
Men are more likely to have gout than women. But women can also be affected, mostly after menopause. Some health problems, such as obesity and high cholesterol, make gout more likely. And some medications, such as diuretics (“water pills”), can trigger a gout attack. People who drink a lot of alcohol are at high risk for gout. Certain foods can also trigger a gout attack.
Foods That Trigger a Gout Attack
To help prevent a gout attack, avoid these foods:
- Alcohol (beer, red wine)
- Certain meats (red meat, processed meat, turkey)
- Organ meats (kidney, liver, sweetbread)
- Shellfish (lobster, crab, shrimp, scallop, mussel)
- Certain fish (anchovy, sardine, herring, and mackerel)
Physical Exam
Your doctor will ask you questions about where and how often you feel pain. He or she will ask about your diet, medications, and how much alcohol you drink. Your doctor will examine your feet for signs of gout. Signs include redness, heat, and swelling.
Tests
X-rays may be taken to check for tophi or changes in your bones. If needed, your doctor may use a syringe to take some fluid form your joint. This fluid will be analyzed for uric crystals. Your doctor may also take a blood sample to look for uric acid.
Treating Gout Attacks
Gout attacks are painful and often happen more than once. Taking medications may reduce pain and prevent attacks in the future. There are also some things you can do at home to relieve symptoms.
Medications
Your doctor may prescribe a daily long-term control medication to reduce levels of uric acid. This may also help prevent gout attacks. Other medications can help relieve pain and swelling during an attack. Be sure to take your medications as directed.
What You Can Do
Below are some things you can do at home to relieve gout symptoms. Your doctor may have other tips.
- Rest the painful joint as much as you can.
- Raise the painful joint so it is at a level higher than your heart.
Preventing Gout
With a little effort, you may be able to prevent gout attacks in the future. Here are some things you can do:
- Avoid alcohol and foods that trigger gout.
- Take long-term control medications prescribed by your doctor.
- Lose weight if you need to.
- Control blood pressure and cholesterol.
- Drink plenty of water to help flush uric acid from your body.
