Gout is one of the most common types of arthritis. When you have high levels of uric acid in the blood, urate crystals may accumulate in the joints. This can subsequently cause inflammation and pain, resulting in a full-blown gout attack, which is usually sudden in nature.
If you or your loved ones have gout, it’s essential to visit a specialist promptly and seek the best gout treatment in Kolkata.
Some of the common symptoms of gout include intense joint pain, inflammation, redness in the affected area, joint stiffness, and lasting discomfort. In general, your toe is more likely to be affected by gout. But other joints are susceptible as well, including knees, elbows, ankles, fingers, and wrists. During the attack, you may start experiencing intense pain; the pain can linger, although with not the same intensity, for up to 12 hours. In some cases, the pain and discomfort may even take weeks to subside. As the condition worsens, the effect with subsequent gout attacks may last longer.
There are several risk factors that increase your chances of having gout. Poor diet is one of the biggest culprits here. If you’re eating items that may increase uric acid levels in your blood, that’s a bad sign. Similarly, being overweight is another risk factor of gout. Family history, certain medications, and several medical conditions (like diabetes, kidney disease, and more) also increase your chances of developing this type of arthritis.
If you’re experiencing any of the gout symptoms, visit a doctor who will first do a proper diagnosis. The gout diagnosis may include an x-ray, ultrasound, joint fluid test, and blood test. In some cases, the doctor may even order DECT or Dual-Energy Computerized Tomography. Post diagnosis, the specialist will outline a clear arthritis treatment in Kolkata for gout. The treatment plan depends on the severity of the condition.
In general, the doctor will write medications to treat gout attacks, including NSAIDs and corticosteroids. In addition, for long-term management and relief of the condition, the doctor will also offer medications to block uric acid productions and medications to improve uric acid removal from the body.
The doctor will also advise on the lifestyle changes you should make to control gout symptoms and prevent attacks. It would include exercising regularly and losing weight. They would also make dietary recommendations, ensuring you avoid foods that are high in purines.
Gout is one of the most complex types of arthritis. But then it doesn’t have to put a pause in your life. Make sure you opt for the best gout treatment in Kolkata and closely follow your doctor’s advice. This will eventually help control your condition, ensuring a healthier and happier life in the long run.