Gout

Gout is a metabolic disease that brings on sudden and intensely painful arthritis (inflammation of the joint). The disorder usually attacks only one joint at a time, often the one at the base of the big toe. Gout tends to run in families and affects 9-10 times more men than women. Occasionally, gout can attack many joints at one time.

Symptoms

• Red, swollen, and tender joint.
• Sudden, excruciating pain, which worsens at the slightest movement.
• Slight fever, in some cases.

Complications

• Tophi formation.
• Kidney stones.
• Kidney failure.

Cause

• Buildup of uric acid in the blood, which collects and forms crystals in joints or tissues. The crystals irritate the joint, causing inflammation. An attack can be provoked by a sudden rise or fall in the blood uric acid level, eating too much food rich in purine content like organ meats, sardines, wine, and heavy alcohol consumption. About 20% of gout sufferers have a normal uric acid level in the blood during an acute attack.

What you can do

• Consult a doctor if you suspect gout.
• Drink plenty of fluids to lessen the risk of contracting kidney stones.
• Take simple painkillers.

What your doctor can do for you

• Prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine.
• Prescribe specific medicines for gout to maintain normal blood uric acid level.

Prevention tips

• Avoid factors that can provoke a gout attack.
• Minimize your consumption of purine-rich food.

For other products see Painkillers & antifever medicines page 439.

This articles is reffered to Malaysia Healthcare-The family health guide MIMS 1997 2nd edition page 387