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Gout is a form of arthritis. It is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain and tenderness in joints. Gout usually affects the distal joints such as the joint of the big toe, ankles, wrists and hands; it can also happen in knee joints. Gouty arthritis attacks are due to high blood level of uric acid which can build up in joints and lead to inflammation. Uric acid is a waste product formed from the breakdown of purines -- substances which are found naturally in your body as well as in certain such as organ meats (kidney, liver, brain, etc), anchovies, herring, mackerel and mushrooms.
You're more likely to develop gout if you have high levels of uric acid in your body. Factors that increase the uric acid level in your body include:
Medical conditions: Certain diseases and conditions increase the possibility of gout. These include untreated high blood pressure, diabetes and high levels of fat and cholesterol in the blood.
Family history of gout: If other members of your family have had gout, you're more likely to develop
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the disease.
Age and sex: Gout occurs more often in men than in women. Men also are more likely to develop gout earlier while women generally develop signs and symptoms after menopause.
Certain medications: The use of thiazide diuretics -- commonly used to treat high blood pressure -- and low-dose aspirin also can increase uric acid levels.
Lifestyle factors: Excessive alcohol use can increase the risk of gout.
Treatment for gout usually involves medications. These medications include:
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): NSAIDs may control inflammation and pain. They include over-the-counter options such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve), as well as prescription NSAIDs. These medications have the side effect of stomach upset, bleeding and ulcers.
Colchicines: Colchicine controls gout effectively, but may cause uncomfortable side effects, such as
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nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
Steroids: Steroid medications, such as the drug prednisone may control gout inflammation and pain. Steroids may be reserved for people who can't take either NSAIDs or colchicine.
If you want to try a gout diet, you also need to:
Avoid or limit alcohol use
Limit or cut back on red meat and seafood
Drink plenty of fluids
Eat more complex carbohydrates, such as whole-grain breads
Eat more low-fat dairy products
Maintain a healthy weight
For additional information talk with your pharmacist or physician.
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8120 Parallel Parkway
Kansas City, KS 66109
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6238 N. Chatham Road
Kansas City, MO 64151
(816) 746-1475
1015 N.E. Rice Road
Lee's Summit, MO 64086
(816) 525-1479
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Olathe, KS 66062
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Fairway, KS 66205
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6450 Sprint Parkway
Overland Park, KS 66251
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Merriam, KS 66202
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