Gouty Arthritis
What is Gouty Arthritis?
Gouty arthritis is a type of inflammatory arthritis caused by elevated levels of uric acid in the blood. Uric acid is a waste product of purine, a type of protein found in some foods. High levels of uric acid in the blood cause crystals to form in the joints, leading to inflammation, swelling, and pain.
Causes of Gouty Arthritis
The main cause of gouty arthritis is too much uric acid in the blood. Although uric acid is found naturally in our bodies, certain factors can cause uric acid levels to rise. These include:
- Poor diet, such as eating an excess of red meat, seafood, organ meats, and sugary drinks
- Certain medicines, such as thiazide diuretics and certain types of chemotherapy drugs
- Kidney or liver diseases, which can slow the breakdown and excretion of uric acid
- Genetics or family history of gout
- Obesity
Symptoms of Gouty Arthritis
Symptoms of gouty arthritis can vary from person to person, but typically include:
- Pain, swelling, and tenderness in the joints
- Warmth and redness in affected areas
- Stiffness, especially in the morning
- Fever and fatigue
- Formation of small lumps, called tophi, under the skin
Diagnosis of Gouty Arthritis
Gouty arthritis is typically diagnosed by analyzing joint fluid from a sample taken from the affected joint. Blood tests can also be used to measure levels of uric acid. Imaging tests, such as x-rays or MRIs, may also be used to evaluate symptoms and rule out other potential causes.
Treatment of Gouty Arthritis
Treatment for gouty arthritis typically involves medications to reduce inflammation, pain, and uric acid levels. These can include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and uric acid-lowering drugs such as allopurinol. In more severe cases, surgery may be required to correct structural damage to the joint.
In addition to medications, lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk of gouty arthritis or reduce symptoms. These changes include maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding certain foods and drinks high in purines, exercising regularly, and drinking plenty of fluids.