Gout is one of those medical ailments shrouded in mystery and plagued by misconception. You may think that it's a disease brought about by over eating and excessive drinking. Gout has carried this stigma for many years, and those who suffer with it often feel too embarrassed to seek proper treatment.



Gout is a medical condition that is quite prevalent in modern day society; however, few realize that it is actually a form of arthritis. Gout is a disease that is trademarked by a high degree of pain that is centralized on one particular joint. More often than not, in about seventy-five percent of all cases, gout is present in the big toe. The condition causes intense pain, swelling, stiffness, and a warm feeling in the affected area.

Contributors and Causes

The exact cause of gout is still unknown, but most scientists agree that the root of the problem lies in the body's inability to metabolize purine. A naturally occurring substance in the human body, purine becomes metabolized into uric acid, and people with gout generally have increased levels of uric acid production in their systems.

The development of gout may be attributed to the body's inability to properly excrete uric acid. The actual problems caused by gout are directly linked to the crystallization of uric acid within the body. This crystallization causes the swelling and intense pain experienced by those suffering with gout.

Much controversy surrounds the development of gout. Many believe that the disease is brought about by ongoing or excessive use of alcohol, coupled with inactivity and poor diet. If you enjoy a diet lacking in purine-neutralizing foods, such as celery, cherries, and strawberries, you may face an increased risk of developing gout.

Those at risk of developing gout should avoid foods that are high in purine such as sardines, anchovies, scallops, diet soda and alcohol. All of these foods possess high levels of purine, and should be avoided if you wish to decrease your risk of developing gout.

Treating Gout

When the agonizing pain of gout strikes, there are only a few options available. The pain can be so intense that even a light blanket draped over the feet brings about terrible suffering. Soaking in a warm bath can help to increase blood circulation in the affected area and help to reduce the swelling. This can also lead to a decreased amount of crystallization of the uric acids that cause the disease.

Placing an ice pack on the affected area is one common misconception that should be avoided. Some people believe that this can decrease the pain and swelling of gout, but it actually aggravates the problem. Lower temperatures only increase the crystallization of uric acids in the body.

When discussing the problem with gout with your doctor, he or she may suggest a number of solutions to ease your suffering. A drug called indomethacin is among the most common recommendations. NSAIDS, or non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs, may also be prescribed. This type of drug is used to decrease the inflammation of the affected area and provide some degree of pain relief.

Gout attacks will come and go, and the condition can flare up without warning. Your doctor may recommend allopurinol, a drug which helps to reduce the body's production of uric acid and limits the amount of crystallization that may occur.

Don't be embarrassed if gout strikes you. See your doctor right away, and get the relief that you need. Find out more about the treatment methods that can help you enjoy a pain-free lifestyle.