Gout, also known as metabolic arthritis, is a disease caused by a buildup of uric acid in tissues of the body resulting in severe inflammation and paining of the joint.
This is condition where crystals of monosodium or uric acid are produced and deposited on the cartilage of joints, tendons and surrounding tissues.
Thus gout is caused by a high concentration of uric acid and high level of acidity in the bloodstream.
Also when uric acid cannot be absorbed by the blood and thus the crystals are deposited in the joint.
Gout is characterized by abrupt, unbearable, unexpected severe pain in addition to swelling, redness, warmth and stiffness in the affected joint.
It is common in men but women are not excluded either since it affects them after menopause when it is seen quite often.
Gout patients have two sources of pain: from within by crystals inside and from outside since the affected area becomes tender, swollen and very sensitive to just a slight touch.
It is known as a severe pain attack that usually occurs during the night and most cases affects the big toe.
Mostly it affects two parts for every patient the second most common part is the elbow which is normally characterized when it gets swollen and unable to perform simple tasks.
However it can also affect following joints: ankle, heel, instep, knee, wrist, fingers and spine.
It is advisable to avoid those food that contain urine, which is linked to increase level of uric acid and such food include red meat.
Also avoid alcohol and if possible lose weight if you have excess stubborn fat.
You can also consider exercise which will help reduce pain in the legs joints since there will be less weight to carry around.
Eating food low in carbohydrate and very rich in protein may trigger gout especially if not accompanied by enough water.
Study your family tree and learn if there is history of gout and if so, then you have high risk of getting the painful attacking gout.