Gout, a disease that has been recorded since the earliest of times, affects many Americans; however, many have misconceptions about this old illness that was once dubbed a disease only of kings. One misconception is that it only affects men who drink a lot of beer and/or wine. Not true – there are other risk factors.
Research shows that gout affects men more than women (but a woman’s risk increases after menopause), and factors such as high alcohol intake, use of diuretics, and high meat and seafood intake increase a person’s chances for contracting gout. In addition, gout may run in a family.
What exactly is gout?
Gout is a type of arthritis known for the very painful flare-ups it causes in joints, especially at the base of the big toe. Some sufferers maintain that the pain is so severe that it makes walking difficult and sleeping impossible. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes gout as, “a rheumatic disease resulting from deposition of uric acid crystals (monosodium urate) in tissues and fluids within the body. This process is caused by an overproduction or under excretion of uric acid.â€
A flare-up of gout is marked by a hot, red and swollen joint(s). These flare-ups can be treated by anti-inflammatory medicines, and may be prevented by diet, weight-loss, and medicines. One key indicator of gout is that flare-ups can be followed by periods of being symptom-free.
Gout – Six Quick Facts
1. When gout sets in, the pain is most severe in the first 12 – 24 hours.
2. Gout is diagnosed using a blood test and/or a joint fluid test.
3. People who experience gout may develop kidney stones as well. In fact, those that think they have gout should see a doctor right away to help prevent the variety of complications this disease can cause.
4. Many people will turn to cherry juice to help alleviate the symptoms of gout. Talk to your doctor about this strategy before using it.
5. Gout affects the big toe, but it can also affect the foot, the ankles, the knees, the wrist, and the hand.
6. Correct hydration remains key during an attack of gout. Talk to your doctor to make sure you drink the right amount of liquids.
Gout – Four Interesting Statistics
1. An estimated 3.0 million adults had gout in 2005, and 6.1 million adults have ever had gout.
2. The incidence of gout among black men was almost twice that among white men (3.1 vs. 1.8 per 1,000 person-years; follow up period 26 to 34 years).
3. In about 50% of cases, gout affects the big toe.
4. Many people with gout have a family history of the disease. Estimates range from 20 to 80 percent.
Gout – Famous Sufferers
Sir Isaac Newton, Alexander the Great, Queen Anne, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, and current actor, Jared Leto.
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