Ground Hog Day Sunday 7/27/2025-Gout Explained Issue

Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints. It can cause sudden, severe episodes of pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness—often in the big toe, but it can affect other joints as well.

🔍 Causes

• Hyperuricemia: High levels of uric acid in the blood.
• Uric acid comes from:
  • Breakdown of purines (natural substances found in some foods and drinks)
  • Decreased excretion of uric acid by the kidneys

⚠️ Risk Factors

• Diet: High in red meat, organ meats, seafood, sugary drinks, and alcohol (especially beer)
• Obesity
• Genetics
• Medical conditions: High blood pressure, diabetes, kidney disease
• Medications: Diuretics (like hydrochlorothiazide), aspirin, immunosuppressants

🔥 Symptoms

• Sudden, intense joint pain (often at night)
• Swelling and redness
• Warmth over the joint
• Limited range of motion
• May affect:
  • Big toe (most common)
  • Ankles, knees, elbows, wrists, fingers

🧪 Diagnosis

• Joint fluid analysis (identifies urate crystals)
• Blood tests (uric acid levels)
• Imaging (ultrasound, X-ray, or dual-energy CT in some cases)

💊 Treatment

Acute Attack:

• NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen)
• Colchicine
• Corticosteroids (oral or injected)

Prevention / Long-Term Management:

• Allopurinol or febuxostat (lower uric acid levels)
• Lifestyle changes (see below)

🍽️ Lifestyle & Diet Recommendations

• Limit: Alcohol, red meat, shellfish, sugary drinks
• Increase: Water intake, low-fat dairy, fruits, vegetables
• Weight loss (if overweight)
• Exercise regularly
• Avoid crash diets and fasting

📌 Note:

If left untreated, gout can become chronic and lead to:

• Tophi (hard uric acid deposits under the skin)
• Joint damage
• Kidney stones