What is Gout?

Gout is a widespread form of arthritis, often caused by elevated uric acid levels in the blood. In this video, Consultant Rheumatologist, Dr Mohammed Sharif, discusses what causes gout and what to do if you have any symptoms of this condition. Links: For more information on gout - Causes of gout To search for a consultant near you - https://www.circlehealthgroup.co.uk/find-an-appointment Chapters: 00:00 - 00:38 - Introduction 00:38 - 01:31 - What is gout? 01:31- 02:06 - What are the symptoms of gout 02:06 - 03:01 - Why does gout occur? 03:01 - 03:25 - Who does gout affect? 03:25 - 03:58 - What are the causes of gout? 03:58 – 04:45 - Health conditions and medications that increase the risk of gout 04:45 – 05:08 - What can trigger a gout attack? 05:08 - 05:37 - When to seek medical advice 05:37 - 06:12 - Outro So, what is gout? Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis that affects between 1% and 2% of the population in the UK. It results in sudden, severe inflammation, which causes intense pain and swelling in the joints. Although gout most commonly affects the big toe, it can also impact other joints, including the ankles, knees, wrists, elbows, and fingers. What are the symptoms of gout? Gout symptoms often begin in the big toe, but other joints can be involved. Attacks usually start at night and peak within 12 to 24 hours. They can last from a few hours to several days or even weeks. During a gout attack, you may experience: - Intense joint pain - Red, shiny skin over the affected area - Severe tenderness, even with a light touch - Swelling around the joint - A sensation of warmth in the joint - Joint stiffness Why does gout occur? Gout occurs when uric acid, a waste product formed from the breakdown of certain foods, builds up in the blood. This condition is called hyperuricaemia. Uric acid is typically dissolved in the blood, filtered through the kidneys, and excreted in urine. However, if your body produces excessive uric acid or your kidneys fail to excrete it properly, hyperuricaemia can develop. It's important to note that having high uric acid levels doesn’t necessarily mean you will develop gout. Many people with hyperuricaemia never exhibit any symptoms. Gout symptoms emerge when sharp uric acid crystals accumulate in the joints, causing sudden pain and swelling—commonly known as a gout attack or flare-up. Who does gout affect? Gout is more prevalent in men than women and typically develops in middle age. Women are less likely to experience gout before menopause due to the hormone oestrogen, which helps the kidneys eliminate uric acid. Gout can sometimes affect younger people, and in these cases, the symptoms are usually more severe. What are the causes of gout? Several factors can increase the risk of developing gout, including genetics, diet, certain health conditions, and medications. Risk factors for gout include: - Family history of gout - Increasing age - Obesity - Alcohol consumption, even in moderate amounts - Eating foods high in purines, such as organ meats and seafood - Consuming high-fructose corn syrup drinks Health conditions and medications that increase the risk of gout Certain health conditions can predispose individuals to gout, including chronic kidney disease, hypertension, diabetes, psoriasis, and haemolytic anaemia. Rare genetic disorders like Kelley-Seegmiller syndrome or Lesch-Nyhan syndrome can also cause hyperuricaemia by affecting the body's ability to regulate uric acid levels. Medications that may increase the risk of gout include aspirin, diuretics (which are commonly used for treating high blood pressure), Niacin (which is the term for vitamin B-3 supplements), and Cyclosporine (an immunosuppressive medication). What can trigger a gout attack? Several factors can trigger a gout attack, such as: - Injury to a joint - Dehydration - Certain medications, particularly those taken irregularly or at high doses - Surgery - Low-level arsenic exposure - Consumption of purine-rich foods and alcohol When to seek medical advice Gout symptoms can resemble other conditions, like a joint infection, which requires immediate treatment. If you experience symptoms of gout, schedule an appointment with your consultant promptly. Seek medical attention if: - You have gout symptoms but no prior diagnosis - You've been diagnosed with gout and are experiencing a flare-up - Your symptoms haven't improved after a few days of treatment Consultant details: Dr Mohammed Sharif is a Consultant Rheumatologist. He practices at Shirley Oaks Hospital in Croydon: Mohammed Sharif - Consultant Rheumatologist in Croydon Do you want to hear more about gout? Leave a comment below and we will plan future videos on suggested topics. To see how Circle Health Group can help you - Private Treatment of Gout #gout #causesofgout #whatisgout