Facts about Gout

Gout is a form or arthritis that strikes without warning, most often causing intense pain in the big toe. It is brought on by excess uric acid in the blood.

Common Facts about Gout

·         It affects over 2 million Americans

·         It is rare in children and young adults, is more common in men, and is more prone to affect women after menopause

·         Mild cases can be controlled by diet

·         Recurring attacks can cause damage to bones, cartilage and kidneys if not treated

·         Excess alcohol consumption increases your chance of gout

·         It was once known as the “disease of kings” since it was mainly diagnosed in rich men who drank and ate in excess

·         Vulnerability to gout can be inherited

·         Gout can accompany injuries, hospitalizations, periods of stress, tumors, high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity

Any gout attack should be followed by a trip to the doctor. Even if pain subsides, your uric acid levels need to be checked.  Your physician may give you a steroid or prescribe medication to stop your attack. Anti-inflammatory medication can be taken to help ease pain, but avoid aspirin, which can raise uric acid levels in the blood.

Image by Lars Plougmann. Opposable Big Toe. (2011). Flickr.