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HERWriter Guide

Hello Anon

Thank you for writing!

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that develops in people with high levels of uric acid within their blood.

Symptoms of gout can begin suddenly, often in the big toe, with acute pain that may come and go in a day (a gout attack). Attacks may not recur for some time, although typically when someone has had one attack, they will eventually get another. Pain and swelling in the feet can increase and cause great discomfort.

Although men between the ages of 40 and 60 are generally more likely affected by gout, sometimes when a person has another disease such as diabetes, kidney disease, sickle cell anemia, leukemia, and similar disorders she may have problems eliminating uric acid from her body making her more susceptible to the condition. Other risk factors for developing gout include genetics (family history of gout), weight, alcohol consumption, diet, and lead exposure.

Some common questions about Gout -

How is gout tested and diagnosed?

Your doctor may perform a blood test, urine test, or a synovial fluid analysis to check for uric acid levels, joint x-rays, or synovial biopsy.

How is gout treated?

Many people treated for gout can control their symptoms and live productive lives. The most common way to treat a gout attack is with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) taken orally, or corticosteroids. In more extreme cases, the doctor may prescribe colchicines
What is the long-term risk? Extreme or advanced cases of gout could cause deformation of joints and kidney stones, or deposits in the kidneys leading to chronic kidney failure.
What information should I share with my doctor if I suspect gout? It is important to keep track of symptoms, medications and supplements, what seems to help or worsen your condition, personal and family medical history, and share it with your doctor.

Can gout be prevented?

There is no known prevention for gout, but it is possible to avoid further damage to joints with treatment, avoiding alcohol.

What can I do at home to help my condition?

Doctors recommend following a low-purine diet (green vegetables, tomatoes, fruits and fruit juices, breads not containing yeast, nuts, milk, butter, cheese, chocolate, coffee and tea). Foods like beef, pork, bacon, lamb, seafood, and yeast should be avoided. Asparagus, cauliflower, mushrooms, peas, spinach, whole-grain breads and cereals, white poultry, kidney and lima beans should be used in moderation only.

Anon, it doesn't sound like you have seen a doctor yet - please do so as soon as possible for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Best,
Susan

September 14, 2018 - 12:49pm

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