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Gout is a disease in which the chemical processes in the body
are upset, resulting in an abnormally large production of uric
acid which accumulates in the blood. Also known as podagra, gout
was once though to be caused by over-indulgence - an affliction
of the well-to-do. Unfortunately though this disorder affects
rich and poor alike. It is most often seen in men over the age
of 30 and post-menopausal women.
Uric Acid: - This colourless and odour-free chemical compound is
normally found in a waste product of bodily processes in the
blood and urine.
A high concentration of uric acid in the blood can lead to the
collection of acid and urate crystals (tophi), in one or more
joints. Deposits of these crystals results in severe, painful
attacks accompanied by redness and swelling.
Acute Gout:
An acute attack occurs when anything alters the level of uric
acid in the blood. Possible causes would include: surgery an
accident certain medication i.e. diuretics a sudden dietary
change i.e. one exceptionally high in protein and fats further
damage to a joint already affected.
Chronic Gout:
Joints affected by gout may become arthritic, eventually leading
to severe deformities of the hands and feet.
Treatment:
The usual treatment of gout is to relieve pain and inflammation
through the prescribing of anti-inflammatory drugs.
Long term treatment is aimed at lowering the uric acid level, by
prescribing drugs that increase urate excretion; or by treatment
with a drug called Allopurinol - to reduce urate production and
the risk of further attacks.
Effort should be made to prevent further attacks by avoidance of
excess alcohol consumption.
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