Gout what causes it and how can it be treated

This is a form of arthritis. It causes pain and
swelling in your joints. For many people, it starts in
the big toe.

Gout is caused by too much uric acid in your body.
This is a waste product that’s made when you
digest some foods and drinks. It’s normally carried
through your blood to your kidneys, and then it
passes out in your urine. But if you have gout, your
body can’t get rid of uric acid fast enough. It builds
up in your blood. It collects in your joints in the form
of crystals. Your immune system responds to these
crystals, causing gout symptoms to flare.

An attack of gout comes on suddenly, often at
night. You may feel it in your feet, ankles and
knees. It may affect your hands, wrists and elbows.
Your joints become painful and swollen. The skin
may be red and warm. Your joints may feel stiff.
Your first attack may last from three to ten days. If
you have another attack, it may be months or years
later. As you have more attacks, more joints may
be involved.

Gout is treated with medications. Getting regular
exercise and losing weight may also help. And, you
may be able to reduce your risk for gout attacks by
avoiding foods and drinks that can raise levels of
uric acid in your body. Some examples include red
meat, seafood, alcoholic beverages and drinks that
contain fruit sugar. Your healthcare provider can
create a plan that’s right for you.