Gout: sudden pain in the joints

What is gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis that occurs as a result of the accumulation of uric acid in the blood, leading to the formation of sharp-shaped crystals in the joints, especially the large toe joint. These crystals cause severe inflammation and sudden pain.

Causes of gout:

• High uric acid: This occurs as a result of the body producing large amounts of uric acid or the kidneys' inability to get rid of it adequately.

• Genetic factors: Genetic factors play an important role in gout.

• Diet: Eating foods rich in porin, such as red meat, seafood, and alcohol, increases the risk of gout.

• Obesity: Obesity increases the risk of gout.

• Certain medications: Some medications, such as diuretics, may increase the risk of gout.

• Other health conditions: such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart failure.

Symptoms of gout:

• Sudden and severe pain: The pain usually begins suddenly in the middle of the night, and reaches its peak within a few hours.

• Redness and swelling: The affected joint becomes red, hot and swollen.

• Sensitivity of the joint: The joint becomes very sensitive to touch.

Gout diagnosis:

Gout is diagnosed by:

• Physical examination: The doctor examines the affected joint.

• Blood analysis: to measure the level of uric acid in the blood.

• Analysis of the synomal fluid of the joint: A sample of the cythelic fluid of the affected joint is drawn and examined under a microscope to ensure the presence of uric acid crystals.

Treatment of gout:

The treatment of gout aims to:

• Pain relief and inflammation: using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids.

• Lowering the level of uric acid: using drugs that help lower the level of uric acid in the blood.

• Preventing seights: through lifestyle changes and taking medications regularly.

Prevention of gout:

• Healthy diet: Reduce the intake of foods rich in borin, such as red meat, seafood, and alcohol.

• Maintaining a healthy weight: Losing excess weight helps lower the level of uric acid.

• Exercise regularly: Exercise helps lower the level of uric acid and improve overall health.

• Drink plenty of water: Drinking water helps expel uric acid from the body.

• Take medications regularly: If you take medications to lower the level of uric acid, it is important to take them regularly.

Note: This information is for general guidance only, and does not dispense with consulting a specialist to diagnose and treat any health condition.