Gout is a common and complex form of arthritis that can affect anyone. If the knees may be affected, causing episodes of severe pain and swelling.
Causes
Gout occurs when urate crystals accumulate in the joint, causing the inflammation and intense pain of a gout attack. Urate crystals can form when you have high levels of uric acid in your blood.
Symptoms
- Intense joint pain. Gout usually affects the large joint of your big toe, but it can occur in any joint.The pain is likely to be most severe within the first four to 12 hours after it begins.
- Lingering discomfort. After the most severe pain subsides, some joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks. Later attacks are likely to last longer and affect more joints.
- Inflammation and redness. The affected joint or joints become swollen, tender, warm and red.
- Limited range of motion. As gout progresses, you may not be able to move your joints normally.
Treatment
Treatment
Treatment for gout usually involves medications. Drugs used to treat acute attacks and prevent future attacks include