Wikipedia:VideoWiki/Gout

Edit with VisualEditor

Definition

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis characterized by recurrent attacks of a single red, tender, hot, and swollen joint.^[1][2]

Symptoms 1

Pain typically comes on rapidly, reaching maximal intensity in less than twelve hours.

Symptoms 2

It may also result in

Cause 1

Gout is due to persistently elevated levels of uric acid in the blood.^[3][2]

Cause 2

This occurs from a combination of diet, other health problems, and genetic factors.^[3][2] At high levels, uric acid crystallizes and the crystals deposit in joints, tendons, and surrounding tissues, resulting in an attack of gout.^[3]

Cause 3

Gout occurs more commonly in those who regularly eat meat or seafood, drink beer, or are overweight.^[3][5]

Diagnosis

Diagnosis may be confirmed by the presence of crystals in the joint fluid or in a deposit outside the joint.^[3] Blood uric acid levels may be normal during an attack.^[3]

Treatment

Treatment with

Prevention

Once the acute attack resolves, levels of uric acid can be lowered via lifestyle changes or allopurinol.^[3] Taking vitamin C and eating a diet high in low-fat dairy products may be preventive.^[7]

Epidemiology 1

Gout affects about 1 to 2% of the Western population at some point in their lives.^[3] It has become more common in recent decades.^[3]

Epidemiology 2

Older males are most commonly affected.^[3]

History

Gout was historically known as "the disease of kings" or "rich man's disease"

References