Зміст
Gout is felt during an acute attack of joint pain, which usually begins in the morning, immediately after waking up. In addition, redness, tension or swelling of the skin affected by joint disease may be observed. Before such an attack occurs, the patient’s body may experience asymptomatic hyperglycemia, that is, an increased level of uric acid (> 7 mg / dl) for a long time. To test this, you need a blood test. Who is in danger? How to treat gout when she is diagnosed? You will learn this from further reading.
1. Who is in danger?
Men get gout twice as often as women. This is due to the protective effect of female hormones (estrogens), the amount of which decreases after menopause, and it is then that women can get this disease.
In addition, it is worth mentioning that the risk of gout increases if, by the way, there is a metabolic syndrome (abdominal obesity, hypertension, elevated triglycerides or insulin levels and diabetes).
People with hypothyroidism, kidney failure, cancer, and rheumatoid arthritis may also be worried.
2. What does the course of the disease look like?
The first stage is the previously mentioned asymptomatic hyperglycemia, which can last from early childhood. However, it is worth emphasizing that this should not lead to gout.
The next stage is an acute attack, which is characterized by severe and unbearable pain.
If we have already experienced the first, unfortunately, there is a high probability that there will be further acute symptoms of arthritis. Then let’s talk about the chronic day.
3. How is the treatment?
In the acute form of this disease, the first-line drug is colchicine, which relieves inflammation. In addition, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSA IDs) are used.
Joint immobilization and the correct position of the limb also play an important role. Cold compresses or frozen gels are recommended.
After the disappearance of the symptoms of an acute attack, after about 2–4 weeks, uric acid levels begin to decrease.
4. What diet should patients use for this condition?
Surveys indicate that 75% of over 40 years old know that eating habits cause gout. People who are already sick are advised to have a diet low in purines, which allows them to reduce or maintain their optimal uric acid levels.
You should give up mainly red meat, offal, broth, seafood and fish (especially salmon, mackerel and tuna). Alcohol and fruit drinks should also be avoided. For this, dairy products and fresh fruits and vegetables are recommended.
Diet is a very important element of therapy, but this is not enough. Recommended pharmacological treatment should be supplemented.
5. Which specialist should I contact if you notice disturbing symptoms?
First, you should visit a general practitioner as soon as possible, who will direct us to a blood test. The results will show the concentration of uric acid. Then it turns out whether further consultation with a rheumatologist is needed.
