Gout

Gout is an extremely painful form of inflammatory arthritis caused by an accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints. These crystals can also deposit in other tissues throughout the body, such as the kidney, which can lead to kidney stones. Gout is more common in men over the age of 45, but it can occur in anyone at any age. Factors ranging from a family history of gout, to having other health issues such as high blood pressure, diabetes or kidney disease, can increase risk for developing gout.

During a gout attack, a person experiences sudden and severe episodes of pain, warmth and swelling in one or more joints. While gout often appears in the big toe, attacks can affect the feet, ankle, wrists, hands and elbows and cause permanent joint damage.  The pain during a gout attack is often so excruciating that many go to an emergency room for relief.  Gout attacks come on quickly and can last for several days. After a first attack, most people will experience another painful flare within a year. More than three in four gout sufferers will have another attack within two years. Subsequent attacks often are more severe and last longer.

Despite the severity of gout, just 10 percent of sufferers are getting needed, ongoing treatment.  Left untreated, gout can lead to permanent joint damage and other health issues such as kidney stones. Extensive destruction of the joints and large crystals which form under the skin can lead to deformities – particularly of the hands and feet – and result in loss of normal use.

People who suffer from gout should avoid alcohol (especially beer/grain liquors and red wine), red meat, lamb and pork, shellfish, organ meats (liver, kidneys etc.), sugary drinks and fast food.  Instead their diet should consist of fish, chicken, fresh fruits and vegetables, eggs and nuts.
 
While gout is a lifelong condition, it can be managed – or even completely controlled – by sticking with a proper treatment plan that combines the right medication with diet and lifestyle changes. Because gout is associated with other serious health issues, an accurate diagnosis and ongoing management is critical.

Aaron Armstrong, MPE, ATC

Athletic Trainer

Elite Sports Medicine Clinic at the Sports, Spine and Rehabilitation Centre
esmbahamas@gmail.com

^{Aaron Armstrong holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Temple University in Philadelphia, PA in Athletic Training and has been a Board Certified Athletic Trainer since 2012.  He also earned a Master of Physical Education degree in Athletic Administration from Idaho State University in Pocatello, ID.}

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