Gout is considered a chronic and progressive disease, that results from an overload of uric acid in the body. It is caused by the overaccumulation of uric acid in the body, when the kidneys cannot remove the excess from the blood as quckly as it is produced. It is deposited in joints as tiny urate crystals, which produce inflammation and sharp pain.
In acute causes of gout, the joint of the big toe is commonly affected (red-, big toe). Other joints may also affected: foot, knee, ankle. The most common sign of gout is a nighttime attack of swelling, tenderness, redness, and extremely pain.
Gout is nine times more common in men (usually after age of 30) than in women. In women the disease occur after menopause.
Risk factors:
- Obesity
- Alkohol
- Abnormal kidny function
- High blood pressure
- Certain drugs
- Have family member with gout
Gout that goes untreated can lead to worsering pain and joint damage.
Gout diagnosis:
- Blood test – are used to assess uric acid level, kidney function, ect.
- X-rays – are used to assess underlying joint damage
Prevention: change your lifestile!
1. dietary changes can help reduce uric acid levels in the blood:
– avoid high purine foods : liver, sardines, sweet breads, beef kidneys, gravy, game meats, scallops, mackerel, brains)
– avoid alkohol
2. weit reduction
3. adequate fluid intake
4. fitness or physical therapy – startig a fitness program or physical therapy at Sulypont Pain and Rehabilitation Clinic may be one the best thing you can do for your healt. After all physical activity can reduce your risk of chronic disease, improuve jour balance and coordination, help you lose weight.