Gout is inflammation of joints due to accumulation of uric acid which is a product of break down of certain types of food. Usually the big toe is most affected and become swollen and red and painful but ankle and knee could be affected too. It can also cause kidney stones. In this article we will address most of your questions about gout.
1. What are the tests for gout?
If your doctor suspected gout he may order uric acid level in blood which is usually high. Also, he may order a sample from the fluid that surround the joint and if it contains urate crystals it is confirming that you have gout.
2. What are the symptoms of gout?
The hallmark symptom of gout is pain and swelling in one joint usually the big toe but could also affect multiple joints such as knee and ankle. The pain increases at night and usually start to decrease in intensity after 24 hours without treatment.
3. What lifestyle modification can i do to control gout?
The main part you can do is to lose weight.
Even with treatment, losing weight will substantially improve your condition. You should also eat a balanced diet and avoiding bad food for gout. Also drinking plenty of water is very helpful.
4. What food is bad for gout?
You should avoid sweet and sugary drinks, liver, sea food, alcohol and red meat in excess.
5. Is tea or coffee bad for gout?
Actually, drinking tea or coffee in moderation can reduce uric acid level but keep in mind not to increase the amount of sugar because as we said before sugar is bad for gout.
6. Is gout hereditary?
Yes, gout could be in your genetics so if you have a first degree relative with gout you could wind up having gout. Fortunately it is a manageable disease.
7. Can high uric acid or gout cause kidney problems?
Yes, uric acid crystals can accumulate in the ureter after excretion by the kidney causing stones.
8. What are the treatment available for gout?
Your doctor could describe many treatments according to your condition and other health problems such as NSAIDS to relieve inflammation and ain during a gout attack. Also, colchicine during the gout attack to relieve inflammation and as a prophylaxis to prevent further gout attacks.also, allopurinol which is treatment to decrease production of uric acid after a gout attack.
9. Is gout a serious problem i need to worry about?
If treated early, you can live a normal life without any complications but if left untreated, it can cause serious problems such as erosion of joints and kidney problems. So if you suspect having gout go to your doctor and don't postpone it.
If you have any experiences or questions about gout feel free to share your thought in the comments section
Great article thanx
ReplyDeleteThank you
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