Do you often complain of joint pains? A lot of people suffer from arthritis and one of the most forms of arthritis. Gout often stems from over concentration of uric acid in the body. When there is an excessive amount of uric acid in the body, these forms into tiny urate crystals which usually forms in body tissues especially around the joint areas. When these crystals form around the joints inflammation sets in and the patient experiences pain. Once the gout becomes chronic, a hard deposit of uric acid around the joint tissues can be observed which may lead joint destruction. Moreover, chronic gout can also lead to a decrease in the kidney’s ability to function normally.
Usually a gout attack follows an injury. It can also be a result of diuretic intake which is often used to treat hypertension. The pain which accompanies a gout attack usually lasts for up to two weeks. Untreated gout may put a person at risk of developing kidney stone and arthritis of the feet or knees. It is estimated that about 5 million people in the United States alone suffer from gout. The disease is more commonly seen in men than in women.
The causes of gout are varied. Heredity is sometimes a factor in the development of gout. Those who have inherited an abnormal processing of uric acid in the body will most likely develop gout. Other factors which contribute to the development of gout include obesity, heavy alcohol consumption, and high blood pressure.
If you are suffering from gout you may want to find ways to treat the pain and discomfort which comes with the illness. Diet and low alcohol are some of the ways to control the continuing development of gout. Uric acid prevention is considered to be among the best measures in the treatment of gout.
The prevention of uric acid production can be done through prescription medication. This can also be done through the avoidance of foods rich in purines. Purines are compound which contain uric acid. Some of the food products you need to avoid because these contain uric acid include sardines, anchovies, sweetbreads, and organ meats like liver, and kidney. Avoid these food items may help reduce the incidence of gout attack. The consumption of fructose which is usually found in soft drinks also shows an increase risk of gout. Finally, lowering one’s weight will also help limit the risk of gout attacks.