Gouty arthritis

Gouty arthritis is a type of arthritis that occurs when uric acid builds up in the blood and causes joint inflammation. This condition is most commonly seen in the big toe, but it can also affect other joints in the body.

Causes

Gouty arthritis is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. This can occur if the body produces too much uric acid or if the kidneys do not eliminate enough of it. When uric acid levels in the blood become too high, the acid can form crystals that deposit in the joints and cause inflammation and pain.

Symptoms

The most common symptom of gouty arthritis is sudden, severe pain in one or more joints. The joint may also feel warm and appear red and swollen. Other symptoms can include fever and a general feeling of illness.

Diagnosis

Gouty arthritis is diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. These tests may include a blood test to measure uric acid levels and a joint fluid test to identify uric acid crystals.

Treatment

Treatment for gouty arthritis focuses on relieving pain and reducing inflammation. This can be achieved through medications, dietary changes, and lifestyle modifications. Medications used to treat gouty arthritis include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), colchicine, and corticosteroids. Dietary changes can include avoiding foods high in purines, which can increase uric acid levels in the body.

Prevention

Prevention of gouty arthritis involves maintaining a healthy lifestyle and managing risk factors. This can include maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol consumption, and avoiding foods high in purines.

See also

• Arthritis
• Uric acid
• Inflammation
• Purines

Gouty arthritis Resources
Latest articles Most recent articles Ongoing trials	Wikipedia