What is Gout?

There are many forms of arthritis, and one of them is called Gout. This is a type of health concern that occurs when there is a build up of uric acid in the joints. That acid turns to sharp crystals that create a great deal of pain. Some individuals suffer from chronic gout. This means that they continue to have the pain and stiffness in various areas of the body. It is painful but the degree of pain is often tolerable.

For others, Gout is acute and that means the inflammation occurs without warning very quickly. The inflammation will be extremely painful and the affected joints are hot and tender to the touch. For someone with acute Gout, each outbreak of it seems to be worse in severity than the one before it. The attack can last from a few days to several weeks.

Gout can form in any joints of the body. However, the big toe and the elbow is the most common. Most people with Gout will get it on one side of the body. However, it can alternate sides each time with an acute case of it. Some people are affected in both sides of the body at the same time when they have chronic Gout.

The fact that the number of people with Gout has significantly increased in the past 20 years has many experts concerned. There are those that believe it may have a genetic link. However, most believe that the chances in diet for the Western population plays a big role in this increase of people with Gout. Shellfish and alcohol are two key items that can significantly increase the amount of uric acid in the body.

There are many methods managing Gout, but there is no cure for it. Getting a full medical diagnosis is a good place to start. There are medications that can help to reduce the amount of uric acid in the body. They can create various side effects to contend with as well. There are also lifestyle changes that a person can pursue. By losing weight, improving diet, and getting plenty of exercise Gout is less likely to occur.