Uric Acid and Gout Attacks by Charlene J Nuble

Uric acid is an organic compound which when found in excessive levels in the body could lead to gout. Uric acid is made up of carbon, nitrogen, hydrogen, and oxygen and it affects the tendons, bodily tissues, and joints. Uric acid and gout attacks are closely related to each other because if your uric acid level is high then there's a very great probability that you could develop gout.

What is gout?

It is the inflammation of the joints which is characterized by sudden pain and is caused by high levels of uric acid. Gout is a type of arthritis which is quite painful. Gout is sometimes called gouty arthritis.

Hyperuricemia (having a high level of uric acid in the blood) is caused by several factors. If your diet consists of high purine content, you’re a likely candidate for the disease. There are certain foods which contain purine like sea foods, meat and some veggies. Purines are converted to uric acid once they enter the body. Another element is high frustose. If there is an excessive level of frustose in the body, it can also lead to gout.

Purine and fructose affects the function of the kidneys. When uric acid crystallizes inside the kidney, it can become kidney stones. On the other hand, if they crystallize or harden around the bodily tissues, tendons, and joints, it will cause gouts. Since the kidney’s function is impaired, it can’t eliminate the harmful excess uric acid.

If gout is left untreated, it can lead to chronic gout which can create permanent damage to the joints. Since the pain is severe, most gout treatments are concentrated in easing the pain. If the UA levels remain high, gout attacks will become frequent. Therefore, immediate proper treatment is required; take note of the word ‘proper’ because if you receive improper treatment, your condition might get worse. If gout is not treated properly, the patient is also prone to kidney and cardiovascular problems.

Sharp pain on the toe or any other joint area is the first indication of gout. It is accompanied with redness, tenderness, and inflammation. Through laboratory tests, the doctor can make an accurate diagnosis. A fluid is taken from the affected joint and the lab tests will identify the concentration of UA crystals.

There is no known cure for gout but the treatment options can definitely prevent and manage it. Through lifestyle modifications and speedy proper treatments, the gout status can be changed dramatically. You must be able to consult a nutritionist or a dietician so that you can establish a healthy diet regimen. The doctor can also help you in choosing the best treatment option available which will suit the status of your current condition.

There are also natural treatments available like home remedies and herbal remedies for gout. Some say that increasing the fresh orange juice intake can also lower the uric acid in the body. With these treatments, you can surely find one that can work for you and your budget.

If you feel severe and immediate pain on the joints, you could have gout. This condition is prevalent among individuals with weight problems, older men (over 40 years), and those with a family history of gout.

Uric acid and gout attacks are rampant these days so be extra careful. It would be wise to consult your doctor at once to get accurate diagnosis because this condition is sometimes mistaken for other heath problems. Once you’re diagnosed with gout, you need to make the necessary changes in your lifestyle and diet if you want to achieve the best results.