Excessive amounts of uric acid in the body are to blame for gout. Uric acid is a byproduct of natural body functions and the food we eat. Normally, it goes through the kidneys and leaves the body through urine. However, sometimes the body has too much, and it does not pass through the kidneys. High uric acid levels cause the body to make crystals in the joints. The result is the form of arthritis known as gout. Interestingly, excessive uric acid also causes kidney stones.
The crystals cause inflammation and severe pain. The condition usually affects the big toe but can attack other joints. Unfortunately, over eight million Americans have gout. Those who are at greater risk of having gout include:
- middle age men
- post-menopausal women
- individuals with a family history of gout
- individuals who suffer from obesity, kidney disease, diabetes and hypertension
This condition has several stages. Many people may have high uric acid, but they do not have pain and inflammation. Individuals may have high uric acid for years before they have a gout attack. Indeed, people who have one attack are likely to have others. Gout can become so severe that joints are permanently damaged. Gout Treatment Joliet IL usually involves a regimen of medication and lifestyle changes. Doctors at Suburban Foot & Ankle Associates in Joliet, IL may recommend changing one’s diet, exercise and losing weight. To lower the rate of attacks, one must lower their uric acid. Uric acid comes from purines, which are made in the body and found in certain foods.
Part of Gout Treatment Joliet IL is making sure patients eat fewer purine foods. Further, patients should avoid drinking alcohol. High purine foods include organ meats, beer and several types of seafood. Additionally certain vegetables are rich in purines including asparagus, mushrooms and spinach. There are things people can do to feel better during a gout attack. First, rest the joint for a couple of days, elevate the joint and use ice to ease inflammation. Further, be sure to take any medication prescribed as part of Gout Treatment in Joliet IL. Start making changes today to avoid further problems. For more information visit website URL
