Gout is a Type of Arthritis

Gout is a form of arthritis that has been with us through recorded history.

Gout is a direct result of excess uric acid in the body. Why is it that some suffer and others don't? The answers lie in the basic five, weight loss, stopping smoking and other tobacco related habits, controlling alcoholic consumption, changing the diet and beginning an exercise program.

Uric acid is produced by the body during the breakdown of purines. Bacteria in the intestinal tract eliminates about one third of the uric acid and the balance is passed out of the body as urine. Urine derives its' name from uric acid.

People who suffer from gout either produce excess amounts of uric acid or are unable to eliminate normal amounts. The accumulation in the blood forms sodium urate crystals. When viewed through a microscope the crystals look like needles and when in the joint feel like them. Sodium urate crystals are very abrasive and can cause inflammation and destroy the joints. Crystals in the kidneys can cause kidney stones and may require surgical removal. Crystals in the ears can form painful nodules called tophi. Gout can also cause carpal tunnel syndrome and the condition called "trigger finger." Gout sufferers have a higher incidence of diabetes and clogging of the arteries in the heart, kidneys and brain.

Gout medication can often trigger more severe attacks of gout and aspirin can interact with different drugs causing severe gout attacks. Aspirin, and many over the counter medications, cause the retention of uric acid. Blood pressure medication, especially diuretics, can be a problem for gout sufferers, since they increase uric acid and sugar levels in the blood, aggravating gout and are suspect causes of diabetes. Drugs for gout usually need to be taken on an ongoing basis.