What are the symptoms of gout?

Recognizing gout symptoms is very important. The symptoms of gout usually come on without warning, and very suddenly. Most often the big toe is affected, but gout can also occur in the finger joints, elbows, ankles, wrists, ears or other areas of the foot. It is very important to seek treatment immediately. If you do not get immediate treatment the symptoms can worsen, and joint deformities can occur.

Causes of gout

Gout symptoms occur when uric acid in the bloodstream crystallizes and deposits in and around joints. People who develop gout have increased levels of uric acid, a condition known as hyperuricemia. Causes of hyperuricemia include:

• Being overweight, excessive alcohol consumption, and irregular kidney function all can lead to excess uric acid levels.
• Certain drugs, such as insulin and low dose aspirin, are known to cause uric acid levels to rise.
• Lack of exercise.
• High blood pressure.
• Low thyroid hormone levels, known as hypothyroidism.
• Eating foods with high levels of purines. Purines are the substances in food that the body converts into uric acid. Foods that are high in purines include shellfish, liver, kidney, red meat, alcohol, peas, creamy sauces and anchovies.
  
  

Many people reduce or eliminate future symptoms of gout by changing their diet. The following recommendations can help:

• Drink lots of water - six or more glasses a day will help the body to excrete more uric acid. Water also decreases the chances of getting kidney stones.
• Lose weight - if you are overweight.
• Regular exercise - is good for your health, and reduces the risk and severity of gout attacks.
• Eat healthy gout foods - foods known to decrease the uric acid levels include: foods high in potassium, black cherry juice, blueberries, oranges, leafy green vegetables, tomatoes, potatoes, lemon juice and low fat dairy foods.
• Avoid foods with high levels of purines.