Gout: Yes, It is a Form of Arthritis

Gout is an uncomfortable and painful condition of the joints. Symptoms usually have a quick onset and get worse as time progresses.

Gout occurs when uric acid crystals collect and form in the tissues and joints throughout the body. These crystals are the result of high levels of uric acid collected in the body, which seems to be drawn to a resting place in the joints.

Typically, the normal functions of the body has no problem keeping the uric acid levels in check by excreting the uric acid through the kidneys. A person experiencing gout symptoms may have higher levels of uric acid for one or two reasons:

• The body is producing too much uric acid
• The body is not excreting enough uric acid to keep the levels in order

The most common location on the body for gouty arthritis to occur is on the joint of the big toe, right where the toe is connected to the foot.  Although gout usually occurs in this joint first, it can also occur in other joints throughout the body if they condition is not treated.

The main symptoms of gout include: localized pain, swelling in the affected joint, redness of the skin in the affected area, and/or the skin may be warm to the touch. These symptoms usually come on very quickly, it is uncommon for warning signs to occur before the onset of the gout attack.

A person experiencing gout symptoms should watch their diet to avoid increasing the levels of uric acid in the body.  Some of the foods that should be avoided include: alcohol, shellfish, and excessive consumption of other types of animal proteins– specifically red meat.