What Is the Origin of Gout?

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By eHow Contributing Writer

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Gout is a form of arthritis that causes pain, inflammation and redness in the joints. Men are more likely to develop gout, and it tends to run in families. Drinking alcohol also increases your risk for developing the painful condition.

Origin

Gout develops when too much uric acid builds up in the body, causing crystals to deposit in the joints. These deposits lead to pain and inflammation.

Effects

Normally, uric acid is flushed from the body in urine. In some people, the body may make too much uric acid or it may stop flushing it efficiently, causing gout to develop.

Identification

In most cases, gout first strikes the joints in the toes and feet, causing pain and redness. Gout can develop in any joint, but it usually develops in the feet and toes first.

Complications

In some cases, people with gout can also develop kidney stones. Additionally, some people who are prone to gout will develop recurrent flare-ups of the condition.

Prevention

If you are prone to gout, you can decrease the likelihood of developing a flare-up by eating a low-purine diet. Avoid foods such as organ meats, sweetbreads, fish such as herring, mackerel and sardines and beer and other alcohol.

Treatment

The pain from gout can be alleviated by over-the-counter pain relievers in many cases. Prescription-strength painkillers can be used when OTC drugs are not effective.