Gout
Arthritis is a disease of the joints which causes them to become inflamed and stiffen. There are three types of arthritis – Rheumatoid arthritis, Osteo-arthritis and less common form, Gout.
What is gout and what causes it?
Gout is the result of an imbalance of uric acid in the body and manifests via a build-up of uric acid in the blood. Small crystals may form, which collect in the joint causing irritation, and which can be painful and severe.
Apart from the severe pain the gout causes, most other effects of gout are uncommon but it can include kidney damage via cystals forming create kidney stones which are notorious for being extremely painful to pass.
What are the symptoms?
The main symptoms of gout is waking up in the middle of the night with an acute throbbing pain in the big toes, which is swollen, Usually only one of the big toes is affected. The pain last for a few hours and usually subsides then doesn't return for a few months.
How do I prevent it?
You can reduce your chances of having attacks by leading a healthy lifestyle by:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- eating a healthy diet including what you think (i.e. avoiding too much alcohol or fizzy drinks)
- Making sure there is plenty of Vitamins C in your diet.
What are the treatments?
Gout can be controlled and regulated with anti-inflammatory drugs, which your GP will be able to prescribe, and these will alleviate the attack over 24 hours or so. An immediate measure is to levitate your leg to help reduce swelling along with the application of ice or cooling lotions while waiting for your medication to take effect.
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