Gout is a physical condition caused by the build up of uric acid in the joints. Uric acid is a byproduct produced when purines are broken down. If the diet is especially high in purines or the body unable to flush out the excess uric acid from the blood then it will build up in the joints. It mainly affects the big toe and feet and manifests as arthritis; chronic degeneration of the cartilage, tissues and bones within the joints. If you have been told you are at risk of developing gout then it's a good idea to keep an eye out for the warning signs and common symptoms, as early treatment of this condition often shows the most promising results.

The most common symptom of gout is arthritis, which is usually present in the big toe. This includes pain, swelling and stiffness of the joint which might hurt when you walk or try to stretch your feet. This pain will often come on suddenly and feel like a hot, burning ache. Of course, it doesn't always only affect the joints in the big toe, but most commonly those in the hands and feet, possibly the ankles, spine, wrists and elbows too. Men between the ages of 30 and 60 are the most at risk of developing gout, but ti can affect women and anyone of below 30 and above 60 too. People with gout often feel lethargic and tired and may have a low grade fever accompanying the arthritic pain too.

The specific type of pain that is experienced with gout is not just dull throbbing or the slight pain we get from swelling. Even the slightest movement or touch to the area is likely to cause a hot searing pain to shoot through the joint that is unbearable. Chronic gout is likely to leave someone unable to walk and the person will probably want to have their feet raised, but never covered with even so much as a sock or a blanket for fear of the pain.

Chronic cases of gout lead to tophi, which are uric acid deposits within the joints. They can look bulbous from the outside and are painful but can be removed during surgery. For tophi to have developed the case of gout is likely to be particularly severe, fast developing or if not then neglected. If you have tophi developing then it's essential to visit your medical practitioner for advice so that you can regain the use of these joints.

The most common gout symptoms include arthritis in the joints (usually the big toe), low grade fever and tiredness. If you are experiencing these three symptoms together then it is not a medical emergency but you should not put off seeing your doctor for long. Treating gout at an early stage is essential in keeping the movement in your joints and also in keeping them pain free. You will find that the treatment of gout has many different factors, including a change in diet, but they all work together to ensure that uric acid is flushed out of the body effectively in future.

Stan Tian

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