The actual build-up of uric acid can result when the body has difficulty eliminating uric acid throught the kidneys and urine, or in some cases when the body produces too much uric acid. The tendency to accumulate uric acid is often hereditary. Gout is most commonly seen in males 50-60 years of age, but can affect males and females 20-80 years of age. Gout is an acute inflammation of a joint, most commonly seen in the great toe joint and ankle joint. It can, however, occur in almost any joint in the body. It starts with the sudden onset of intense pain in a joint accompanied by redness and warmth to the touch. Swelling is usually quite significant in the affected joint, and may cause the entire foot or ankle to be swollen. It is often difficult to walk on, and the pain is usually worse at night. Early on, gout does not cause permanent damage to a joint but after several attacks of gout, the joint can be permanently damaged by with arthritis. The diagnosis is often based on the clinical appearance of the foot or ankle. Usually, bloodwork will show an elevated uric acid level, but a normal level does not rule out gout. Sometimes the uric acid has precipitated into the joint from the bloodstream, allowing the uric acid level in the blood to return to a normal levels. In more difficult-to-diagnose cases, your doctor may attempt to remove fluid from the affected joint and send this fluid to the laboratory for analysis. X-rays may also be done to determine if any joint damage has already occurred.
Treatment
The treatment of gout often starts with a prescription anti-inflammatory medication to reduce pain, and to allow the swelling to decrease. Usually, over the counter anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen are not adequate enough to reduce the pain and swelling of an acute gout attack. Untreated gout usually lasts 5-10 days but may last longer, and that is why it is important to see a podiatrists or your primary care physician. Do not attempt to treat it yourself. Gout can also be induced by certain medications such as anti-hypertensives, This is another reason to see a physician regarding gout. Gout can also be induced by trauma or surgery in someone who is prone to gout. If a patient has a history of gout, and is going to have foot surgery, it is important to tell your surgeon. Doctors usually gives a medication prior to foot or ankle surgery to prevent a gout attack after surgery in patients who are at risk.
Foods that are high in purines include red meats, shellfish, beer, red wine, salt and certain nuts. Drinking 6-8 glasses of water each day, eating a proper diet, and evaluating prescription medications can reduce the likelihood of a future gout attack.