Gout

Arthritis is not one disease but, in fact, scores of musculoskeletal disorders with many different causes, that are not fully understood, that destroy bones, joints, muscles, cartilage and other connective tissues. Arthritis affects 50-million Americans, two-thirds of whom are under age 65, including 300,000 children. It is the leading cause of disability in the US. and can dramatically limit the activity of those who suffer from arthritis. The most common forms of arthritis are:

1. Osteoarthritis
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis
3. Gout

SYMPTOMS

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by severe pain, swelling, redness and tenderness in a joint, most commonly the joint at the base of the big toe although it can affect other joints such as the ankle, knee, fingers, wrist, etc. Acute attacks often strike in the middle of the night and can be so painful that even the weight of a sheet is intolerable. Gout can affect anyone, but it more commonly affects men age 40 to 50 and women after menopause. Gout is highly treatable.

• Severe pain in a joint
• Severe swelling in a joint
• Redness in a joint
• Tenderness in a joint
• Symptoms usually appear in the middle of the night

CAUSES

Gout is a painful form of arthritis caused by high levels of uric acid in the blood. Gout occurs when excess amounts of uric acid forms crystals that collect in the joints which become very painful and swollen. Gout most commonly attacks the big toe joint or ankle, though it can affect a variety of other joints. Over time, it can cause joint damage if left untreated. Excessive use of alcohol, a family history of gout, certain medical conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol can increase the risk of getting gout.

TREATMENT