Gout is one of the most common types of arthritis and has been linked to high levels of uric acid in the blood. Some medications, such as allopurinol, can lower your uric acid levels and help prevent attacks. However, drugs aren’t always necessary, and home remedies may be just as effective in mild cases.
If you’re looking for the best gout treatment in Kolkata, but have several questions about this disease, here are some of the most frequently asked questions about gout with answers:
What is gout?
Gout is a common form of arthritis. It’s characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness in the joints – often the joint at the base of the big toe. The affected joint is hot, swollen and so tender that even the weight of the sheet on it may seem intolerable.
What are the symptoms of gout?
Common gout symptoms include extreme pain, swelling, redness, stiffness, warmth, and tenderness. Check out this post: Symptoms of Gout (And Treatment)
How is gout diagnosed?
The symptoms of gout can be similar to those of other conditions, such as pseudogout, so your doctor will ask many questions about your medical history and lifestyle. Your doctor might also order lab tests and X-rays.
In addition to a complete medical history and physical examination, your doctor might recommend these tests: joint fluid test, blood test, and imaging tests (MRI). Based on the reports, the doctor will make a conclusive remark.
Are gout and rheumatoid arthritis related?
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and gout are two separate types of arthritis. RA is an autoimmune disease; the body’s immune system attacks healthy tissues by mistake. Gout is a type of arthritis that occurs due to a buildup of uric acid in the blood, which eventually forms crystals that settle in the joints.
Can gout be cured?
Although gout is treatable, there’s no cure for it.
Can gout kill you?
Gout is treatable with medication and lifestyle changes. If you have gout, it’s not going to kill you directly. But it can lead to other serious health issues that may contribute to an early death.
Can gout be cured with diet?
A gout diet isn’t a cure for the painful joint condition. But some foods may help ease the inflammation and pain associated with gout.
Does gout affect knees?
Yes, gout can affect your knees.
Does gout cause muscle pain?
Yes, gout can cause muscle pain. Although joint pain is more common.
How is gout treated?
In most cases, gout attacks respond quickly to medications. The goal of treatment is to reduce pain and inflammation during an attack and prevent additional attacks from occurring.
Medication is usually the most effective way to treat or manage gout. Over time, these medications may also help reduce the amount of uric acid in your body (uricosuria) by increasing the amount that’s removed by your kidneys.
For mild to moderate flare-ups, your doctor may prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These medications can be very effective at controlling inflammation and pain during a gout attack.
In addition to medications, lifestyle changes may also be recommended as part of your treatment plan. These changes can help reduce uric acid levels and lower your risk of gout.
Have more questions?
Connect with an experienced orthopedic doctor who specializes in arthroscopy treatment in Kolkata. Consult them and get all your questions answered.