Acute Gout Symptoms
Dealing with acute gout symptoms can be painful and difficult, yet there are a number of medications and remedies that can help to alleviate suffering for those stricken with the disease. Gout is caused by too much uric acid in the system. The reasons for this condition can vary. In some cases, a patient’s body might produce too much uric acid. In other instances, an individual might experience difficulty metabolizing this substance. When uric acid builds up in a patient’s system, a number of negative consequences can result. Deposits of uric acid can cause kidney stones as well as gouty arthritis. Individuals who experience acute gout symptoms will notice a redness and swollen area around a joint, most likely the big toe. The joint will also be very warm to the touch and painful. Such attacks are usually the result of years of accumulation of uric crystals in the joint. As these crystals silently gather, they set the stage for a gout attack. Other areas of the body that could experience symptoms would include the heel, the ankle, the knee, the finger, the instep, the elbow, and the wrist. If attacks persist, damage to the joint can occur.Men between the ages of forty and sixty are most likely to experience acute gout symptoms. Women and younger people can experience attacks of this disease, but this happens less frequently. One attack does not necessarily indicate that more incidences of this disease will occur. Rich diets can be a factor in this illness as can a malfunction of the liver. If the liver produces large amounts of uric acid, there is a chance that the body will not be able to excrete the acid through urine and it will build up in the bloodstream. The kidney’s job is to filter this substance from the blood. When there is too much uric acid for the kidney to handle, real problems can begin. From the bloodstream, the uric acid may travel and settle in other locations in the body. If the crystallized uric acid settles in joint spaces, the patient will experience joint stiffness, swelling, inflammation, and pain. An overindulgence in alcoholic beverages can inhibit the body’s ability to remove uric acid and can be a contributing factor in the development of acute gout symptoms. Other risk factors could include exposure to lead and taking certain medications such as aspirins and diuretics.
A doctor might diagnose this disease on the basis of acute gout symptoms and through other methods as well. The physician may insert a needle into the swollen joint and retrieve fluid from the joint spaces. This fluid will be examined in a laboratory to see if the presence of uric acid crystals can be found. Infections in the joint could exhibit similar symptoms. For this reason, the fluid will usually be examined for the presence of bacteria so that the correct diagnosis can be made and a serious infection can be ruled out. A simple blood test might be performed to check for urate in the blood. Blood tests are not only less invasive than removing fluid from the joint, but will also be considerably less painful. Some medical professionals might also order a series of X-rays of the afflicted joint to rule out other conditions. In other cases, a physician might try to alleviate the situation by drawing all of the excess fluid out of the joint. Complications that may be associated with this illness could include damage to the kidney by the accumulation of uric crystals, the development of kidney stones, involvement of other joints, and permanent joint damage.
Preventing acute gout symptoms can include a variety of measures. Those who suffer from this disease should avoid foods that are high in purine. These foods could include kidney, liver, and some seafood, particularly anchovies, sardines, and mackerel. Certain vegetables can be problematic as well. For example cauliflower, mushrooms, spinach, and lentils could prompt acute gout symptoms. An over indulgence in alcohol should be avoided as well. As is the case with many physical ailments, a healthy diet along with regular exercise are very important. Loosing unwanted pounds is another important step in dealing with this disease. Drinking water throughout the day can also be important. Rich foods such as sweets and pastries, cream sauces and gravy can aggravate this condition. Red meat that is full of fat can be harmful as well and may help to initiate a gout attack. Of course, the care of a skilled physician can make a big difference in the life of a patient who faces this disease. Continuing to take prescribed medications can help to ward off the symptoms of the diseases as well. The Bible provides assurances to the poor that God will not forget them. “For the needy shall not always be forgotten: the expectation of the poor shall not perish for ever.” (Psalm 9:18)
Treatments for acute gout symptoms can involve a number of steps and medications. Patients should keep the afflicted joint in an elevated position. Immobilizing the joint to ensure that it rests can be helpful as well. Applying ice to the joint periodically can help to alleviate swelling. A doctor may prescribe a non steroidal anti inflammatory drug. These drugs can relieve pain and reduce inflammation. In some cases, a steroid injection may be called for. Quality medical care along with preventative steps can help patients deal with this illness and experience recovery.