Gout: The Royal Pain

Gout. The very word sounds like something unpleasant. And it is! Gout is a type of arthritis that causes sudden, severe attacks of pain in the joints. It's often called "the disease of kings" because it was once thought to be caused by eating too much rich food and drinking too much alcohol. While that's not the case, gout can still be a royal pain in the you-know-what!

I know this firsthand because I've had gout. It felt like a hot poker was being jabbed into my big toe. I couldn't even walk without wincing in pain. It was a miserable experience. But there's good news: gout can be managed. With the right treatment, most people can live gout-free lives.

What causes gout?

Gout is caused by a buildup of uric acid in the body. Uric acid is a waste product that's produced when the body breaks down purines. Purines are found in many foods, including red meat, seafood, and beer. When there's too much uric acid in the body, it can crystallize and form deposits in the joints. These deposits are what cause the pain and inflammation of gout.

What are the symptoms of gout?

The most common symptom of gout is sudden, severe pain in a joint. The pain is often worse at night and can last for several days. Other symptoms of gout include:

Swelling
Redness
Warmth
Stiffness
Tenderness

Gout usually affects one joint at a time. However, it can affect multiple joints, including the big toe, ankles, knees, and elbows.

How is gout diagnosed?

Your doctor can diagnose gout by examining your joints and asking about your symptoms. He or she may also order blood tests to measure your uric acid levels. If the blood tests show that you have high uric acid levels, your doctor will likely diagnose you with gout.

How is gout treated?

There are several different medications that can be used to treat gout. These medications can help to reduce pain and swelling and prevent future attacks. In some cases, your doctor may also recommend lifestyle changes, such as losing weight or changing your diet.

What can I do to prevent gout attacks?

There are a few things you can do to help prevent gout attacks, including:

Drink plenty of fluids
Eat a healthy diet
Limit your alcohol intake
Lose weight if you are overweight or obese
Get regular exercise
Take medication as prescribed by your doctor

If you have gout, it's important to see your doctor regularly to manage your condition. With the right treatment, you can live gout-free.