Gout
Causes of the Gout
Excessive uric acid in the human body is main cause behind development of gout. Such excess of uric acid can be caused due to various reasons like increased production of uric acid by body system or due to kidney’s inability to clear the uric acid from the body properly and adequately.
Causes behind increase in production of Uric Acid
We know that increase in production of uric acid by body system is one of the major causes for development of gout. It is important to understand why production of uric acid is increased. Excessive use of alcohol, shellfish and some medications may lead to increase in uric acid production and result in gout attacks.
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Health complications created by Gout
Following are some of the major complications.
- Development of muddles called tophi. These are caused by prolonged presence of high levels of uric acid in the body and deposits of uric acid salts as result of presence of uric acid for long time. These deposits can appear surrounding the affected joint or other body tissues like ears.
- People suffering from gout are on higher risk of kidney damage. High levels of uric acid combined with high blood pressure can lead to kidney damage.
Prevention of Gout
Change in lifestyle and eating habits is considered as the best way of preventing development of gout. Rich foods and alcoholic beverages are considered as main factors that could raise the uric acid levels. Reduction in intake of such rich foods and alcohol can reduce production and deposit of uric acid and help you in prevention of gout.
Treatment of Gout
There are few therapies available for treating gout. Fortunately gout attacks subside within a period of a week or so and gout attacks are less frequent. There may be period ranging from months to even years between two gout attacks.
Following are some of the commonly used treatments.
- Colchicine : It is considered as the standard treatment for acute gout. You must consult your doctor before starting colchcine treatment as this treatment can produce adverse side effects like vomiting, nausea and diarrhea.
- Use of NSAIDs : Your physician may suggest use of anti-inflammatory (non-steroidal) drugs for treating your gout. NSAIDs are used specifically for treating indomethacin form of gout.
- Medications like allopurinol and probenecid are used when treatment is required for longer periods.
