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GOUT

Gout is a common and complex form of arthritis that can affect anyone. It’s characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness in one or more joints, most often in the big toe. An attack of gout can occur suddenly, often waking you up in the middle of the night with the sensation that your big toe is on fire. The affected joint is hot, swollen, and so tender that even the weight of the bedsheet on it may seem intolerable.

Here are some key points about gout:

  1. Causes:

    • Gout occurs when urate crystals accumulate in your joint, causing inflammation and intense pain.

    • Urate crystals can form when you have high levels of uric acid in your blood. Your body produces uric acid when it breaks down purines, which are substances found naturally in your body.

  2. Symptoms:

    • Intense joint pain, usually affecting the big toe.

    • Lingering discomfort after the most severe pain subsides.

    • Inflammation and redness in the affected joint.

    • Limited range of motion as gout progresses.

  3. Risk Factors:

    • Obesity, family history of gout, age (common for those above 50), and certain medications increase the risk.

  4. Complications:

    • Advanced gout: Uric acid crystals can get deposited under the skin in nodules called tophi. These are usually painless but may become swollen and tender during gout attacks.

    • Recurrent gout: Some people experience multiple gout attacks per year, which could damage the joints.

    • Kidney stones: Uric acid crystals deposited in the kidney tubules can cause kidney stones.

  5. Prevention and Self-Care:

    • Lifestyle modifications can prevent gout attacks:

      • Drink plenty of water and avoid sweetened drinks.

      • Limit or avoid alcohol consumption.

      • Consume low-fat dairy products.

      • Limit meat, fish, and poultry consumption.

      • Maintain a healthy weight.

Remember to seek medical advice if you experience sudden, intense joint pain or other symptoms of gout. Proper management can help alleviate pain and prevent complications. Consult Dr Chinmoy Roy at Rajarhat Pain Clinic, Kolkata

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