Gout – Definitely No Laughing Matter

Although we understand that Gout is associated with a high level of uric acid in the blood, scientists are not completely sure why this situation develops in the first place. The disease seems to run in families, and is more common among males, those who drink more alcohol than some, and post-menopausal women.

People whose bodies are less able to get rid of uric acid have also been known to suffer from diabetes, obesity, kidney disease, leukemia and some forms of anaemia, but this is merely an association, not a causal link. The only matter on which there is consensus is that the Gout is decidedly unpleasant.

The Symptoms of a Gout Attack

The symptoms associated with gout in the big toe, knee or occasionally ankle usually erupt at night in the form of throbbing, crushing or excruciating pain. The affected joint is warm and red, and the pressure of anything on it is unbearable.

A Gout attack which may be associated with fever usually lasts for several days, or longer if the condition re-ignites. If it does return, it may develop further into gouty arthritis, which is a more serious matter and is associated with permanent joint deformities, loss of mobility and constant pain.

Laboratory Tests for Gout

Although it may seem obvious to the afflicted person that they have Gout in their big toe or somewhere else, a doctor may insist on tests to eliminate other diseases with similar symptoms.

These may include analysis of synovial fluid found in tendon sheaths and joints, establishing uric acid levels in the blood and urine, and perhaps a synovial biopsy too, all in order to determine the extent of any uric acid overload. X-Rays of the affected joints may also be taken.

Symptomatic Gout Treatment

Gout treatment is usually in the form of "analgesic first aid" to quench the pain as soon as possible, and it may be necessary for the patient to take prescription strength non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen, indomethacin or naproxen for up to ten days.

These drugs are often taken in tandem with powerful painkillers like codeine, hydrocodone or oxycodone too. Alternatively, colchicine may be used to reduce pain and swelling, or perhaps even a direct injection of corticosteroids into the affected joint.

These forms of medication usually take effect within twelve hours, and could cure the pain completely within forty-eight hours of starting treatment.

Tackling the Fellow Travellers of Gout

A doctor may prescribe allopurinol or probenecid to artificially lower uric acid levels, if the condition repeats several times a year or there are signs of gouty arthritis. Like most other aches and pains in life, Gout is associated with an unhealthy diet too, and this can represent an opportunity for reflection.

Research has indicated improvements following a reduction of intake of alcohol, anchovies, sardines and herrings, and also offal like liver and kidneys. Less meat should be taken per meal, and legumes and certain vegetables avoided, as also fatty foods including ice cream, salad dressings and fried foods.

A Positive Prognosis

While the disorder may not be preventable, it is often possible to avoid triggering Gout itself. Possibilities here include artificially lowering uric acid levels, and making adjustments to food intake.

Researchers have discovered that a substance called purine, found in food and naturally in our bodies converts to uric acid. Current thinking is that a low-purine diet as indicated above accompanied by reduced alcohol consumption could be the best way to avoid a further dreaded Gout attack.