TheWellnessLiving Health Tips

Gout, or crystal induced synovitis is a condition that results from deposition of urate crystals especially in the surface of some joints. The body responds by sending neutrophils (a kind of white blood cell) to get rid of the crystals by phagocytizing them, but this also results in a severe inflammation. This condition is usualy painful, and pain is caused by the inflammation and the crystal deposition itself, as the urate crystals are very sharp and rigid.

The big toe is commonly affected in gout and the problem begins when there is a sustained excess of uric acid in blood. If untreated, this hyperuricemia progresses into acute arthritis that ultimately becomes chronic arthritis. Gout is more prevalent among the obese people, and is also associated to a high protein diet and excessive fat and alcohol consumption.

Painful attacks of gout are treated in firstplace by trying to reduce the pain. Indomethacin, NSAIDS, oral glucocorticoids, are usually indicated, and in some cases glucocorticoids are administered by an injection in the joint. Ibuprofen is also used, and preferred over aspirin as this can worsen the problem. Cryotherapy is another safe option, by applying ice over the affected region for 20 to 30 minutes daily, This is effective and has no side effects. A useful option for the short term is a diuretic (specifically acetazolamide).

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