GOUT

Gout is a condition characterized by an abnormal metabolism of uric acid. People with gout either produce loo much uric acid, or more commonly, their bodies have a problem in removing it. There are a number of possible consequences of this buildup of uric acid in the body, including acute and chronic gouty arthritis, kidney stones, and deposits of uric acid (tophi) in the skin and other tissues. Gout may occur alone (primary gout) or may be associated with other medical conditions or medications (secondary gout). Gouty arthritis is considered in people who have a sudden onset of a hot, red, swollen joint. It is diagnosed by detecting uric acid (monosodium urate) crystals in the joint fluid. These crystals can accumulate over the years in the joint and trigger repeated bouts of inflammation. Repeated attacks of gouty arthritis can damage the joint and lead to chronic arthritis. I:(>rtunately, there are effective medications to treat gout. earlier age (after puberty) than do women (after menopause). Gout in premenopausal women is distinctly unusual. Attacks of gouty arthritis can be precipitated when there is a sudden change in uric acid levels, which may be caused by:

overindulgence in alcohol and red meats.
trauma.
starvation and dehydration.
IV contrast dyes.
chemotherapy.
medications.

Uric acid is generated as the bodys tissues are broken down during normal cell turnover. Some people with gout generate too much uric acid (10%). Other patients with gout do not effectively eliminate their uric acid into the urine (90%). Genetics, gender, and nutrition (alcoholism, obesity) play key roles in the development of gout.

If your parents have gout, then you have a 20% chance of developing it. Intake of alcoholic beverages, especially beer, increases the risk for gout. Diets rich in red meats, internal organs, yeast, and oily fish increase the risk for gout. Uric acid levels increase at puberty in men and a menopause in women.