Described by Hippocrates as the "unwalkable disease," gout is a painful form of arthritis that most often affects the joints of the big toe. Gout affects approximately 6 million Americans at some point in their lives, according to the National Arthritis Data Workgroup. Gout is treatable, and in many cases, a preventable medical condition.
Symptoms
Gout is an acute condition with symptoms that most often appear suddenly and without notice. Individuals most often experience intense pain in the large joint of the big toe, but gout also affects joints in the feet and ankles, hands, wrists and knees. The most severe pain occurs 12 hours to 24 hours after onset, with discomfort lingering for several days to weeks, according to the Mayo Clinic. Swelling, tenderness and redness of the infected joints is also common.
Causes
The accumulation of small urate crystals around a joint causes gout. Urate crystals form from uric acid, which is produced naturally from the breakdown of purines--organic compounds in the body. Normally, the kidneys filter and excrete excess uric acid through the urine, but with gout, the body either produces too much uric acid or the kidneys excrete too little.
Risk Factors
Several factors increase the risk of developing gout, such as lifestyle, medical conditions and medications. Excessive alcohol use, high blood pressure and cholesterol, diabetes and narrowing of the arteries are risk factors for gout, according to the Mayo Clinic. Thiazide diuretic medications for high blood pressure and low-dose aspirin increase uric acid levels in the body, and increase the risk of gout. Individuals with a family history of gout are at an increased risk, and men are more likely than women to experience gout, especially between age 40 and 50.
Treatment
NSAIDs, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, are the most common medication to treat the inflammation and pain associated with gout. Doctors prescribe Colchicine to individuals unable to tolerate NSAIDs to relieve pain, but side effects, such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, can be a problem. Individuals unable to tolerate NSAIDs and colchicine receive corticosteroid pills or injections, according to the Mayo Clinic. Medications that block uric acid production or improve its excretion from the body also treat gout.
Prevention
Lifestyle and dietary changes can help prevent the development of urate crystals and gout. Individuals should eat a well-balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains, along with plenty of water. Limiting or avoiding alcohol, as well as maintaining a healthy body weight, also decrease the chance of developing gout. Doctors can prescribe preventative medications, such as low-dose NSAIDs or colchicine, to prevent future attacks in those with a history of gout, according to the Mayo Clinic.
