gout
Home
Our Expertise
Gout: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
Gout is a metabolic disorder caused by elevated levels of uric acid in the blood. It is a common form of inflammatory arthritis that usually presents as a sudden attack of severe pain, redness, warmth, and swelling in a joint, most commonly the big toe (Great Toe).
What is Gout?
Gout occurs when excess uric acid forms crystal deposits inside joints, leading to sudden and painful inflammatory attacks. These attacks can occur repeatedly if uric acid levels are not properly controlled.
The condition most commonly affects the feet, ankles, knees, and toes, although any joint can be involved.
Sudden Joint Pain
Severe pain often develops rapidly, especially during the night.
Joint Swelling
The affected joint becomes swollen, tender, and inflamed.
Redness & Warmth
Skin around the joint may appear red and feel hot.
Recurring Attacks
Gout attacks may return if uric acid remains uncontrolled.
Common Symptoms of Gout
- Sudden severe joint pain
- Swelling in one joint (usually the big toe)
- Redness and warmth around the joint
- Tenderness to touch
- Difficulty walking during attacks
- Recurrent episodes of arthritis
- Joint stiffness after attacks
Treatment of Gout
Treatment focuses on relieving pain during acute attacks and reducing uric acid levels to prevent future episodes.
Colchicine
Effective for acute gout attacks but used cautiously due to side effects.
Probenecid
Helps remove excess uric acid through urine.
Sulfinpyrazone
Increases uric acid excretion from the body.
Allopurinol
Reduces the production of uric acid within the body.
Important Treatment Advice
- Drink plenty of water while taking uric acid-lowering medicines
- Take medications exactly as prescribed
- Avoid self-medication during acute attacks
- Maintain healthy body weight
- Regularly monitor uric acid levels
Gout FAQ's: Foods to Avoid
Dietary modifications play an important role in controlling gout and preventing recurrent attacks.
High-Fructose Fruits
Limit apples, pears, mangoes, figs, watermelon, and dried fruits.
Sugary Drinks
Avoid soft drinks, fruit juices, and sweetened beverages.
High-Purine Vegetables
Limit asparagus, spinach, cauliflower, and some mushrooms.
Refined Carbohydrates
Reduce white bread, cakes, cookies, and processed foods.
Foods & Beverages to Limit or Avoid
- Apples, pears, mangoes, and figs
- Watermelon and dried fruits
- Fruit juices and sugary beverages
- Honey and fructose-rich foods
- White bread and refined flour products
- Cookies, pastries, and cakes
- High-purine vegetables in excess
Foods That May Help Lower Uric Acid
Certain foods can support healthy uric acid levels and help reduce inflammation associated with gout.
Citrus Fruits
Rich in Vitamin C which may help lower uric acid levels.
Water
Helps flush excess uric acid from the body.
Low-Fat Dairy
May help reduce the risk of gout attacks.
Fresh Vegetables
Most vegetables are safe and beneficial for overall health.
Managing Gout Successfully
With proper medication, dietary modifications, hydration, and lifestyle changes, most people with gout can effectively control symptoms and prevent future attacks.