Gout is a painful form of arthritis caused by uric acid crystals accumulating in joints. The condition affects men more often than women. What causes gout? How does it affect the body?
Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis characterised by joint pain and swelling. It occurs when too much uric acid builds up in the blood stream. This excess uric acid crystallises into tiny needle-like structures called monosodium urate (MSU) crystals. These crystals irritate the lining of the joints causing inflammation and pain.
There are two types of gout: acute and chronic. Acute gout occurs suddenly after consuming alcohol or taking certain medications. Chronic gout happens gradually without any known cause.
What are the first signs of having gout?
#1. Joint Pain
Joint pain is one of the most common symptoms of gout. If you suffer from frequent attacks of gout, you may notice joint pain several times a week.
Pain usually starts in the big toe joint, spreads to the next toes, and eventually involves the entire foot.
#2. Redness
Redness of the skin is another symptom of gout. This is often accompanied by swelling and heat.
#3. Swollen Toe
Swollen toe is another sign of gout. It can be painful and it may cause the affected joint to become stiff, swollen or tender.
Gouty arthritis usually affects one big toe (the hallux) but other joints in the foot are also involved.
#4. Fever
Fever is another symptom of gouts. It is usually accompanied by chills and sweating.
#5. Urine Problem
Urine problem is another symptom of gout. It is characterised by cloudy urine, burning sensation, and increased frequency of urination.
What food causes gout?
Gout is a painful condition caused by high levels of uric acid in the blood. The only way to treat it is through lifestyle changes such as reducing alcohol intake and increasing exercise. What foods cause gout?
Gout is a type of arthritis characterised by inflammation of the joints. If left untreated, gout can result in joint damage and even kidney stones.
There are several types of foods that can trigger gout attacks. Some common culprits include red meat, shellfish, chocolate, and beer. In addition, certain medications can also contribute to gout flares.
Here are some foods that have been linked to gout:
#1. Alcohol
Alcohol consumption increases the risk of developing gout. It has been found that people who drink at least three drinks per day are twice as likely to develop gout compared to those who do not consume alcohol.
#2. Beef
Beef contains purines which are converted into uric acid during digestion. High amounts of this substance can lead to an increase in uric acid level in the blood.
#3. Chocolate
Chocolate contains caffeine which stimulates the production of uric acid. Caffeine also promotes dehydration, which leads to higher uric acid levels.
#4. Shellfish
Shellfish contain large amounts of purines which are converted to uric acid. Eating these foods can lead to an increase of uric acid in your bloodstream.
#5. Beer
Beer contains xanthine which is converted to uric acid during digestion process. Drinking beer regularly will increase the amount of uric acid in our body.
How to prevent gout?
The best way to avoid gout is to reduce the amount of alcohol consumed. You should also try to limit your intake of red meat, shellfish and chocolate.
If you already have gout, there are ways to manage it. Here are some tips on how to control gout:
# 1. Drink plenty of water
Drinking enough water helps flush out toxins from the body. Water flushes out uric acid from the kidneys.
# 2. Exercise
Exercise reduces stress and improves circulation. These factors help to keep your body healthy.
# 3. Reduce alcohol intake
Drinking too much alcohol can increase the risk of developing gouts. Try to cut down on your drinking if you want to stay away from gout.
# 4. Avoiding triggers
Certain foods and beverages can trigger gout attacks in susceptible individuals. By avoiding them, you can lower your chances of getting gout.
# 5. Medication
Medications like allopurinol and colchicine can help to decrease the symptoms associated with gout. However, they cannot cure the disease.
# 6. Diet
A diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help to lower uric acid levels. Foods like beans, lentils, peas, spinach, broccoli, cauliflower, oranges, tomatoes, avocados, and bananas are good for lowering uric acid.
# 7. Supplements
Supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate may be helpful in treating gout. They work by helping to maintain cartilage in the joints.
Getting treatment for your pain
Back pain & gout is common among people. Our team at LJ Chiropractic, Courtney Meleisea, Sophia Karikala and Li Jen Wong are experts when it comes to these conditions. We believe preventative chiropractic care and management prior to pain determines the longevity of joint movement and prevents injuries occurring, allowing you to lead an active lifestyle. LJ Chiropractic offers tailored treatment options to accommodate the varied needs of our patients. Contact us now!
