Gout is a form of arthritis that causes sudden attacks of pain and inflammation in the joints. It often affects the joint of your big toe, although it can also occur in your wrists, knees, hands, ankles and feet. Attacks of gout occur frequently at night with the worst pain occurring during the first 12 to 24 hours. It affects more men than women, with an increase of gout occurring in women after menopause.
Function
Uric acid is a substance made in the body during the breakdown of foods that contain a material called purine. The kidneys normally filter uric acid out of your body, but in some cases uric acid production increases, forming sharp crystals in the joints and causing gout.
Causes
Certain lifestyle choices, including excessive use of alcohol, can increase attacks of gout. Excessive use of alcohol is more than two drinks per day for men and more than one drink per day for women, according to MayoClinic.com. In addition, some medical conditions, such as hypertension, diabetes, high levels of cholesterol and narrowing of the arteries, can increase the risk of gout.
Considerations
Avoid high-purine foods, which are bad for gout. Limit all sources of animal protein and seafood, restricting your intake to 6 ounces or less daily. Also stay away from refined carbohydrates, such as white bread, cakes and candy.
Prevention
In some cases, medication is helpful in preventing gout. Some treatment options include low-dose nonsterol anti-inflammatory drugs, low-dose colchicine, allopurinol, febuxostat and probenecid. Your doctor may recommend preventative medication in some cases. These medications begin after an attack of gout and are taken according to instructions given by your doctor.
Warnings
Some medications can increase levels of uric acid, which can cause gout to flare. Thiazide diuretics used to treat hypertension and low-dose aspirin can both increase uric acid levels. In addition, anti-rejection medications used in people that have had organ transplants also increase uric acid levels. Talk with your doctor if you are taking any of these medications and have symptoms of gout.
