GOUT, the disease of kings. A painful disorder linked historically to kings. Due to many monarchs being affected. Plus those who were rich enough to binge on food and wine. {like Henry the eight} Gout can affect anyone.
What Is This Disease Of The Kings? GOUT.
Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis, very painful, and usually affects one joint at a time. Symptoms vary from severe to no symptoms, at which stage you are in remission.
The Cause Of Gout.
The cause of Gout is, that our body makes an excessive amount of uric acid. Leading to a condition called, HYPER- URICEMIA. The human body. And the food we eat produces purine. This is broken down in our system and the result is uric acid. With an excessive amount of uric acid in our bloodstream, our body in defense turns it into acid crystals. The crystals deposit in the joints, and for some of us, this causes the signs and symptoms of Gout.
The signs & symptoms of Gout.
This disease linked to kings causes severe pain In the affected joint. Gout may occur at any time without warning and last days or weeks. Followed by remission. Often lasting for weeks, months, or years. Gout is usually found in the big toe, and as well as affects other joints, including ankles, knees, and fingers. To diagnose your Doctor may order a blood test, to measure the level of uric acid in your blood.
Risk Factors For Gout.
There are many factors that will increase your chances of getting the disease of the king. Including, Obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and a diet rich in red meat & seafood. Medication{water pills}, family history.Age. Due to higher levels of uric acid. Men are more prone to gout. Men are between the ages 30-50yrs, and women are usually after menopause. Recent surgery or trauma.
Complications Of
Serious complications: Recurrent gout: frequent bouts. Advanced gout; Untreated gout may cause the deposit of acid crystal-forming nodules under the skin, they are not usually painful but can become swollen and tender during a gout attack. Kidney Stones; Acid crystals may collect in the urinary tract, causing kidney stones.
Treatment For Gout.
Management. Discuss with your doctor, and make a plan of action. Gout can be effectively treated and managed with medical treatment and a self-management plan. What medication you and your doctor choose will depend on your current health. At the first sign of a flare-up, put the plan into action. Pain medication. (anti-inflammatory drugs, like Advil,motrin}. Steroids(prednisone). Be careful of what you eat. Long-term prevention will include a uric acid reducer,(allopurinol), and lifestyle changes.
Prevention.
Drink plenty of fluid. (NO not that type)Water, limit sweetened beverages. Limit or avoid alcohol. Get your protein from low-fat dairy products. Limit your intake of red meat. Fish will be trial and error. If you eat a certain type & start a flare-up within 24hrs, then that fish is not for you. Maintaining a healthy weight. Avoid fasting or rapid weight loss, since doing so may increase uric acid levels.
Lifestyle changes
Keep active. (easier said than done)The CDC recommends an arthritis program. Educate yourself on gout. Be observant about food intake, and avoid what may trigger a flare-up. Keep active, It is recommended that adults engage in 150 minutes per week of at least moderate physical activity. And furthermore, every minute of activity helps. Low impact, walking, swimming. Be safe, start slowly and progress gradually. You can walk at home, sit in a chair, and follow along with the tv. Keep doctor’s appointments and take your medications as prescribed. Lose weight if needed. Keep physically active Every minute of activity counts.
We are not alone
Rumors have it that not just humans suffer from gout. Sue the largest T rex specimen is believed to have suffered from this debilitating disease. Sharing is good, but sharing gout with kings, De Vinci and now Sue.NO, Not wanted.
In conclusion, I have suffered from Gout now for 4 years, with medication, diet, and increased activities it is under control. Knowing how painful and debilitating an episode can be. Above all, I stick to my regime and, have my blood tested every 6 months, which tells me I am on the right track. Go here for more health topics!!!
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