You've probably heard of gout; and, chances are, you've been taught to believe that it's a disease brought about by over-imbibing and eating too many rich and fatty foods. For years, gout has carried this stigma, and many people who suffer from the condition feel embarrassed to seek treatment.
Gout is a medical condition that is quite prevalent in modern day society; however, few realize that it is actually a form of arthritis. Gout is a disease that is trademarked by a high degree of pain that is centralized on one particular joint. More often than not, in about seventy-five percent of all cases, gout is present in the big toe. The condition causes intense pain, swelling, stiffness, and a warm feeling in the affected area.
Causes and ContributorsWhile the exact cause of gout is still unknown, most scientists agree that the root of the problem lies in the body's ability to metabolize purine. A naturally occurring substance in every human body, purine is metabolized into uric acid. People with gout generally have a heightened level of uric acid production in their systems. The inability to properly excrete uric acid from the body is another factor that may come into play in the development of gout. The actual problem caused by a gout condition is directly linked to the crystallization of uric acid within the body, accounting for the swelling and intense pain experienced by those with the disease.
The development of gout remains at the center of much controversy. Many believe that gout is caused by excessive or ongoing alcohol consumption, coupled with improper diet and inactivity. Those with a diet low in purine-neutralizing substances such as cherries, strawberries and celery may be at a higher risk of gout development. Those at risk of developing gout should avoid foods that are high in purine such as sardines, anchovies, scallops, diet soda and alcohol. All of these foods possess high levels of purine, and should be avoided if you wish to decrease your risk of developing gout.
TreatmentsFew solutions are available when the agonizing pain of gout strikes. Sometimes, the pain can be so intense that even the lightest blanket draped over the feet can bring about terrible suffering. Taking a warm bath may help to increase the blood circulation in the affected area, helping to relieve the swelling. This can also lead to a decreased amount of crystallization of the uric acid that causes the disease.
One common misconception that should be avoided is applying an ice pack to the area. While some people believe that this can decrease the pain and swelling of gout, it actually aggravates the problem, as lower temperatures aid in the crystallization of uric acids in the body.
When discussing the problem with gout with your doctor, there are a number of solutions that he or she may suggest to aid your suffering. Some common recommendations include a drug named indomethacin. Non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may also be prescribed. NSAIDs are used to decrease the inflammation of the affected area, and they provide some degree of pain relief.
Gout attacks come and go, and the condition may flare up without warning. Your doctor may recommend a drug known as allopurinol, which helps to reduce the body's production of uric acid, thus limiting the amount of crystallization that may occur.
There is nothing embarrassing about having gout, and you owe it to yourself to get fast relief. If you think that you may have gout, it's important to consult your doctor to discuss possible treatment methods.
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