Understanding Gout

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Gout Overview, Causes, and Symptoms

Gout is a type of arthritis that results in sudden, severe pain, swelling, and tenderness in the joints. It commonly impacts the big toe but can affect any joint. The condition arises from high levels of uric acid in the blood, which form sharp crystals in a joint.

The primary cause of gout is hyperuricemia — an excess of uric acid in the body. Uric acid is a byproduct of breaking down purines present in the body and in certain foods like red meat, seafood, and alcohol. Under normal circumstances, uric acid dissolves in the blood and is excreted by the kidneys through urine. If the body produces too much uric acid or the kidneys excrete too little, this can lead to a buildup and, subsequently, gout.

Risk factors include:

Consumption of high-purine foods
Excessive alcohol intake
Obesity
Certain health conditions, such as kidney disease
Family history of gout
Use of diuretics (water pills)

Gout symptoms typically occur suddenly and often during the night. They comprise:

Intense joint pain that usually begins in the big toe but can also manifest in other joints.
Lingering discomfort following acute attacks.
Inflammation and redness - The joint may become swollen, tender, warm, and red.
Limited range of motion may occur as gout progresses.

The identification of these symptoms contributes to an understanding of gout.