Gout is a painful disease that typically affects the large joint of the big toe (called podagra)—but it can occur in many different joints, including the feet, ankles, knees, hands, wrists and elbows, and sometimes soft tissue and tendons.
The underlying cause of gout is having high levels of uric acid, a metabolic condition known as hyperuricemia. People with high uric acid are at greater risk for having gout attacks; however, many people with high uric acid may never develop gout.
Attacks, which are also known as "flares," can be mild or severe, usually last from three to 14 days, and can cause sudden, severe episodes of pain, tenderness, redness, warmth and swelling.
Some people have just one gout attack in their entire lives but for most people, it's a progressive disease where attacks become more frequent. Gout sufferers may develop urate crystal deposits, called tophi, in their soft tissue and joints which can lead to soft tissue damage, joint deformity and even destruction.
Once referred to as the "disease of kings," because rich, heavy meals and excessive alcohol consumption are both potential gout triggers, recent research has identified severe weight loss diets and dehydration as factors equally apt to trigger flares.
There is no cure for gout. But, an effective management plan—including medication and lifestyle strategies, such as diet changes and weight loss—may help keep the condition under control and allow you to keep enjoying the activities that mean so much to you.
It's important to talk with your doctor about developing a management plan to reduce your risk of gout attacks.
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Contact VITAL WorkLife at 800.383.1908 or access resources through your VITAL WorkLife App. If you're a member, call us to access Nurseline.