GOUT is a type of arthritis that result in the abnormality of the body’s ability to process uric acid that causes inflammation, usually in one joint, that begins suddenly. It’s one of the most frequently reference medical disorders in the history of mankind. Uric acid builds up either because of too much uric acid intake (from rich foods such as chocolate, seafood, or red wine) or the body’s inability to process it. The uric acid then crystalizes in the joints (articulation) – mainly the toes, ankles, hands and wrists – causing painful inflammation of a gouty attack (gouty arthritis). In severe cases, increased uric acid can cause kidney stones and blockages of the kidney filtration system (tubules), and permanent damage to the …show more content…
Some medications such as diuretics (water pills), and having low thyroid hormones may also be risk factors for getting gouty attacks.
The large joint at the base of the big toe (first metatarsalphylangeal joint) is the most common site of a gout attack, however, any other joint can be affected. Most commonly other joints affected are the ankles, knees, wrists, fingers, and elbows.
Patients with gout attacks suffer a rapid on set of pain in the affected joint followed by swelling, redness, and severe tenderness. Some experience pain so intense that even the light touch of a bed sheet on the joint is excruciating. These painful attacks can last from hours to several days. In cases of chronic inflammation the attacks can last for weeks other for months. Unfortunately, patients with gout are at risk for repeated attacks of gouty …show more content…
Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications are the mainstay of treatment for gout. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS). Colchicine (Colcrys), and corticosteroids are used to decreased joint inflammation. Other medications such as probenecid (which helps the body excrete excess uric acid) and allopurinol (Zyloprim, Aloprim), (which decreases the amount of uric acid formed by the body) are used for managing the underlying metabolic derangement that causes hyperuricemia and gout. These medicines decrease the elevated levels of uric acid in the blood main with patient that have chronic