Gout is a type of arthritis that causes sudden, severe pain, tenderness, redness, warmth, and swelling in joints. It mostly affects the big toe, but it can also affect other joints, such as the ankles, knees, elbows, wrists, and fingers.

Gout occurs when uric acid crystals build up in the joints, leading to inflammation and pain. Uric acid is a waste product that is normally excreted in the urine, but some people produce too much uric acid or have trouble excreting it.

If you have gout, you may have recurrent attacks that can last for days or weeks, and you may develop tophi, which are lumps of uric acid crystals under the skin.

What are the Causes of Gout?

Gout is caused by an excess of uric acid in the blood, which can be due to various factors, such as:.

Genetic predisposition
Diet high in purines
Alcohol consumption
Obesity
Hypertension
Diabetes
Insulin resistance
Medications (such as diuretics and aspirin)
Kidney disease

What are the Symptoms of Gout?

The symptoms of gout may include:.

Pain
Tenderness
Redness
Warmth
Swelling

The symptoms usually occur suddenly and can be severe. The pain and tenderness may be so intense that even the weight of a bedsheet can be unbearable.

How is Gout Diagnosed?

To diagnose gout, your doctor may perform some tests, such as:.

Blood test to measure the level of uric acid
Joint fluid test to look for uric acid crystals
X-ray or ultrasound to check for joint damage

How to Prevent Gout Attacks?

Preventing gout attacks requires a combination of lifestyle changes and medications. Here are some tips:.

1. Avoid High-Purine Foods

Foods that are high in purines can increase the level of uric acid in the blood. Therefore, you should avoid or limit the intake of the following foods:.

Organ meats (liver, kidney, sweetbreads)
Seafood (anchovies, herring, sardines, mussels, scallops)
Red meat (beef, pork, lamb)
Poultry (chicken, turkey)
Wild game (venison, elk, rabbit)

2. Drink Plenty of Water

Drinking enough water can help flush out uric acid from the body and prevent gout attacks. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day.

3. Moderate Alcohol Intake

Alcohol can increase the level of uric acid in the blood and cause dehydration, which can trigger gout attacks. Therefore, you should limit your alcohol intake, especially beer and spirits.

4. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of gout attacks. Therefore, you should aim to maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise.

5. Exercise Regularly

Regular exercise can help improve joint mobility, reduce inflammation, and lower the risk of gout attacks. However, you should avoid high-impact activities that may damage the joints.

6. Take Medications as Prescribed

Your doctor may prescribe medications to lower the level of uric acid in the blood or prevent gout attacks. Make sure to take them as prescribed and follow up with your doctor regularly.

Conclusion

Gout is a painful and debilitating condition that can be prevented and managed through lifestyle changes and medications.

By avoiding high-purine foods, drinking plenty of water, moderating alcohol intake, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and taking medications as prescribed, you can reduce the frequency and severity of gout attacks and improve your quality of life.