WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT GOUT.

Understanding Gout: Symptoms, Causes, and Management

Gout is a form of arthritis that develops when uric acid crystals accumulate in the joints, causing sudden, severe pain and swelling. Uric acid is a byproduct of purine breakdown—substances found in some foods and the body's tissues. Normally, the body eliminates uric acid through the kidneys, but if it overproduces uric acid or fails to excrete enough, crystals can form in joints, leading to painful attacks.

The most common area affected by gout is the joint at the base of the big toe, but it can occur in other joints like the ankles, knees, and elbows. Gout attacks can come on suddenly and be intense, disrupting your daily life.


Symptoms of Gout

l  Severe Joint Pain: Commonly affecting the big toe but also the ankles, knees, wrists, or fingers, pain is often worst within the first 12 hours of an attack.

l  Continuous joint Discomfort: Even after the most intense pain subsides, joint discomfort may continue for days or weeks.

l  Swelling and Redness: The affected joints become inflamed, swollen, and tender, with the skin appearing shiny and red.

l  Limited Movement: Over time, untreated gout can restrict joint mobility, making daily activities difficult.

 

 

 

What Causes Gout?

Gout is caused by hyperuricemia, a condition where uric acid levels in the blood are too high. This may result from:

l  Diet: Foods rich in purines and alcohol (particularly beer), can raise uric acid levels.

l  Obesity: Being overweight increases uric acid production and reduces its elimination by the kidneys.

l  Chronic Conditions: Health issues like high blood pressure, diabetes, and kidney disease can contribute to gout.

l  Medications: Diuretics, aspirin, and medications for organ transplants may cause uric acid buildup.

l  Genetics: A family history of gout increases your risk.

 

Complications of Untreated Gout

If left unmanaged, gout can lead to:

l  Tophi: Hardened painful lumps at joints.

l  Kidney Stones: Uric acid crystals may form in the kidneys, leading to painful stones.

l  Chronic Gout: Recurrent attacks can lead to long-term joint damage, reducing function.

 

How is Gout Diagnosed?

At Siloam Hospital, we offer comprehensive gout diagnosis services, including:

1.        Joint Fluid Analysis: A sample of fluid from the affected joint is examined under a microscope to confirm the presence of uric acid crystals.

2.        Blood Tests: We check for elevated uric acid levels in the blood.

3.        Imaging: X-rays, ultrasounds, and advanced scans like CT-Scan can identify joint damage and the presence of urate crystals.

 

Treatment Options for Gout

Managing gout effectively involves medications and lifestyle changes. At Siloam Hospital, we provide personalized treatment plans that may include:

l  Anti-Inflammatory Medications (NSAIDs): These helps reduce the inflammation and pain associated with acute gout attacks.

l  Colchicine: Effective at reducing gout pain if taken early in an attack.

l  Corticosteroids: Used for more severe cases when NSAIDs and colchicine are not enough.

l  Urate-Lowering Therapy: Long-term medications like allopurinol or febuxostat reduce uric acid production to prevent future attacks.

 

Lifestyle Changes to Manage Gout

In addition to medical treatment, our team at Siloam Hospital emphasizes the importance of lifestyle adjustments to control gout:

l  Dietary Modifications: We offer nutritional counseling to help patients reduce purine-rich foods. Alcohol, especially beer, should also be minimized.

l  Hydration: Drinking plenty of water is essential to help flush uric acid out of the body.

l  Weight Loss: Maintaining a healthy weight reduces the pressure on joints and decreases uric acid levels.

l  Exercise: Regular physical activity keeps joints flexible and promotes overall health.

 

Why Choose Siloam Hospital for Gout Treatment?

At Siloam Hospital, our experienced orthopedic specialists are dedicated to providing comprehensive care for patients with gout. Our advanced diagnostic tools and tests ensure an accurate assessment of your condition. We understand the challenges this condition can bring, from sudden, severe pain to long-term joint issues, and we are here to help.

 

Book Your Consultation Today!

If you suspect you have gout or are dealing with its painful symptoms, don't wait. Early treatment can prevent serious complications and help you get back to living pain-free.

 

At Siloam Hospital, we are committed to your health and well-being. Let us help you take control of gout and get back to the activities you love!

We Care, God Heals!

Blog written by:
Kipngetich Obed
Orthopaedic and Trauma
SILOAM HOSPITAL LIMITED

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