Pathology is one of the most common joint diseases in the world. Gout is accompanied by the deposition of uric acid crystals in the bones and joints, which leads to the development of inflammation and pain syndrome.
The disease can develop for a number of reasons, one of which is the lack of substances in the body that break down uric acid. In the absence of qualified treatment, the pathology can significantly worsen the quality of life of the patient and lead to dire consequences.
Features of the disease
Predominantly, gout affects the joints of the foot and big toe. At the same time, the disease can be localized in other parts of the body, including knees, elbows, hands.
In the male population, the disease is detected at the age of 40 years and older, among women – after menopause. It is noteworthy that exacerbations of the disease are almost impossible to predict due to their suddenness. Until now, it has not been established exactly what processes provoke the deposition of uric acid crystals in the bones and joints. Studies show that the disorder can be caused by both genetic factors and be acquired.
Causes of gout
The disease often occurs against the background of a high concentration of uric acid in the blood. The higher the content of this substance, the greater the risk of developing the disease. Various factors contribute to the increase in the concentration of the dangerous substance in the body:
- Abundant presence of meat products in the diet.
- Dehydration.
- Alcohol abuse.
- Sedentary lifestyle.
- Excess body weight.
- Abundant blood loss.
- Uncontrolled use of medications.
- Too much physical activity.
Secondary gout can develop on the background of concomitant diseases that increase the metabolism of uric acid. Among them – infectious diseases, blood diseases, renal failure, as well as psoriasis. In some cases, radiation therapy is a provoking factor in the development of gout.
Who is in the risk group for gout?
According to medical practice and statistics, the risk factors for the development of the disease are:
- Genetic predisposition.
- Alcohol abuse.
- Frequent infectious diseases.
- Violation of eating habits (starvation, overeating, eating disorders).
- Frequent visits to the steam room, sauna.
Treatment of gouty arthritis
Gout cannot be completely cured, but treatment helps to control the attacks, their intensity and frequency. Treatment is prescribed by a rheumatologist after laboratory tests and analyzing the stage of the disease. Important aspects of therapy are control of comorbidities (hypertension, diabetes, etc.), weight loss, avoidance of smoking and alcohol, and restriction of foods high in purines.
Stages of treatment:
- Pain relief – use of anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve pain during an exacerbation.
- Prevention of exacerbations – stabilization of uric acid levels in the blood and reduction of crystalline deposits.
- Prevention of the disease – long-term therapy to prevent relapses, including adjustments in lifestyle and diet.
A comprehensive approach, including medication and lifestyle adjustments, can effectively control gout and reduce the frequency of attacks.
Getting rid of gout by surgery
When conservative methods do not work or provide barely noticeable results, the question of surgical intervention is raised. Surgery for gout can be prescribed when there are strong indications:
- Detection of large tophuses.
- Formation of fistulas and ulcers.
- Rapid progression of the disease.
Nutrition in gout
In addition to medication, an important element in the prevention of gout attacks is proper nutrition.
Limit foods high in purines: alcohol (including non-alcoholic beer), processed meats, smoked meats, offal, seafood and fast food.
Recommendations for a balanced diet:
- Protein: 1/4 plate – lean fish, eggs, cottage cheese, legumes. Meat and fish – about 150 g every other day.
- Carbohydrates: 1/4 plate – whole grain products, potatoes, coarse flour bread.
- Vegetables and fruits: 1/2 plate – fresh or frozen, including cherries, which lower uric acid levels.
- Dairy products: 1-2 servings per day – milk and nonfat dairy products.
Additional recommendations:
- Consumption of added sugar should not exceed 20-25 g per day. It is important to read food labels carefully.
- Maintain water balance by drinking about 1.5 liters of fluid per day.
Physical activity
Regular exercise can help improve your overall physical and emotional well-being and maintain a healthy weight. It is not necessary to buy an expensive membership to a fitness club and forcefully work out on the machines to failure, because to maintain a healthy activity is enough 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week, which is just half an hour a day.
Walking and walking in the fresh air, swimming in the pool, home exercises and video workouts, dancing or cycling are all suitable. Try new sports, choose your favorite and enjoy it.
Adherence to the doctor’s recommendations
Taking therapy and maintaining a healthy lifestyle should be combined with visits to the doctor on an individual schedule. This is necessary to monitor the condition and assess the effectiveness of treatment in dynamics. Be sure to inform your doctor about all changes in the body, the appearance of new symptoms, and tell him in detail how the drug is tolerated. Remember that maintaining the target level of uric acid (less than 360 mmol / l) with medication prescribed by a doctor will minimize the likelihood of recurrence of attacks, avoid dietary restrictions and significantly improve the quality of life.
Conclusion
Gout is a chronic disease that, with timely and proper treatment, can be effectively controlled. Despite the impossibility of complete cure, approaches to therapy, including medication, proper nutrition, physical activity and regular follow-up with a doctor, can significantly reduce the frequency and intensity of attacks. It is important to remember the need to control the level of uric acid in the blood and compliance with a healthy lifestyle, which contributes to improving the quality of life of the patient and minimizes the risk of complications. A comprehensive approach in the treatment of gout, taking into account the individual characteristics of the patient, is the key to successful management of the disease.
