what is GOUT

Gout

Gout is a common type of arthritis that occurs when an excessive amount of uric acid in the blood, tissues and urine crystallizes in the joints. People who have gout are unable to break down and excrete uric acid, a byproduct of digesting certain foods. It usually comes on suddenly, and can last from a few hours to several days. It can cause extremely sore toes or other areas of the foot, and because it frequently manifests itself in the big toe, it is also known as "gouty big toe". Another name is "gouty arthritis". Gout can also appear in an ear, heel of the hand, small hand joints, ankles, knees, elbows, or wrists with inflammation, swelling and intense pain from the buildup of uric acid crystals. Uric acid is the end product of the metabolism of a class of chemicals known as purines. In people with gout, the body does not have enough of the digestive enzyme uricase, and, as a result, uric acid builds up and crystallizes. Left uncontrolled, excessive excretion of uric acid in the urine can lead to the development of painful kidney stones, kidney disease, and even kidney failure.

Gout is associated with high blood pressure, kidney disease, diabetes, atherosclerosis, and uric acid kidney stones.

It is estimated that up to 2 million people have gout. Between 75-90% of gout sufferers are middle-aged males and 25% have family members with it. In women, uric acid starts building up after menopause, quite possibly due to the drop in estrogen.

From health911.com