What causes gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that usually strikes unexpectedly and suddenly, resulting in severe pain as well as swelling and redness. It’s caused by high uric acid levels in your body that accumulate in your joints as crystals. Many factors lead to more pronounced gout symptoms, including:

• Poor diet
• Being overweight or obese
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Diabetes
• Kidney disease
• A family history of gout
• Recent trauma

Men between the ages of 30-50 are generally affected by gout the most. 

What are the most common gout symptoms?

You may notice swelling, redness, or localized, intense pain in your joint. The pain may be severe and last for several hours. The pain is likely to last longer and affect more joints if gout is left untreated. Your range of motion may be limited as well if you experience recurrent gout.

Most gout attacks occur at night. While gout may occur in any joint, your ankles, knees, elbows, and wrists are the most likely areas to be affected, including your finger and toe joints.

What is the best treatment for gout pain?

Dr. Ramos and Ms. Sokoloski take a holistic approach to your gout treatment and focus on preventing gout attacks if possible. Some ways you can keep your uric acid at lower levels include:

• Staying hydrated
• Limiting alcohol intake
• Dietary changes
• Maintaining healthy body weight

If making preventive changes doesn’t help control gout flare-ups, Dr. Ramos and Ms. Sokoloski may recommend other treatment options. Prescription and nonprescription medications can help control gout attacks or reduce pain and swelling. We also provide the latest treatment options, including the use of infusion agents that are delivered intravenously to lower your uric acid levels in the affected area.

How can I find immediate gout pain relief?

In the short-term, over-the-counter pain medications can help you find relief through a gout flare-up. You can also elevate the affected joint and apply ice to reduce swelling.