What is
Gout ?
Read about Gout Disease presented in simple
easy to understand language
Synovial Fluid Analysis Shows
• Elevated WBC with 90% of neutrophils
• Urate crystals on synovial membrane.
Imaging
It shows small punched out erosions due to urate deposits. The absence of periarticular demineralization and preservation of joint space helps to distinguish chronic, tophaceous ( tophi) joint from rheumatoid Arthritis.
Management
The disorder itself may not be preventable, although it can be managed with proper diet control and other therapies.
Some
Basic Principles are mentioned below for proper Management of Gout
1. Rest in bed during acute attacks.
2. The diet should have low purine content.
3. Drink as much fluid as possible in order to facilitate excretion of uric acid.
4. Avoid alcohol.
5. Restrict fat to reduce obesity.
6. Avoid putting stress on joints by providing proper rest to the body and not doing any heavy work.
7. Hot compress to reduce pain and stiffness when the joints are not inflamed. Heat may aggravate the condition of the inflamed joint.
8. Cold application to decrease inflammation of the joint.
9. Physiotherapy and moderate exercise is essential. Once a gout attack is under control, exercising can help strengthen the joint.
10. Developing good relaxation and coping skills can give a great feeling of control over gout.
11. Maintain good communication with the physician in order to avoid the complexity of gout therapy.
12. Periodical check for hypertension, albuminuria or other indicators of nephrolithiasis or renal dysfunction.
13. Preventive treatment should be carried out even if the symptoms of gout subside.
Possible Complications
• Uric acid nephropathy
• Renal stones
• Increased susceptibility to infection.
Prognosis
It is usually good as gout is one of the most treatable types of Arthritis. But if not treated properly, it may lead to endocarditis, myocarditis, rarely pneumonitis. High uric acid levels and recurrent gout are often associated with high blood pressure, and if not treated properly, may lead to kidney damage. Early and consistent treatment along with avoiding things that can trigger a gout attack can significantly reduce the progression and severity of the illness.
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