Մասնակից:Մարիաննա04/Ավազարկղ4
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Կաղապար:Infobox medical condition (new) Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis characterized by recurrent attacks of a red, tender, hot, and swollen joint.[1][2] Pain typically comes on rapidly, reaching maximal intensity in less than 12 hours.[3] The joint at the base of the big toe is affected in about half of cases.[4] It may also result in tophi, kidney stones, or kidney damage.[1]
Gout is due to persistently elevated levels of uric acid in the blood.[2][3] This occurs from a combination of diet, other health problems, and genetic factors.[1][2] At high levels, uric acid crystallizes and the crystals deposit in joints, tendons, and surrounding tissues, resulting in an attack of gout.[1] Gout occurs more commonly in those who regularly eat meat or seafood, drink beer, or are overweight.[1][5] Diagnosis of gout may be confirmed by the presence of crystals in the joint fluid or in a deposit outside the joint.[1] Blood uric acid levels may be normal during an attack.[1]
Treatment with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), steroids, or colchicine improves symptoms.[1][2][6] Once the acute attack subsides, levels of uric acid can be lowered via lifestyle changes and in those with frequent attacks, allopurinol or probenecid provides long-term prevention.[3] Taking vitamin C and eating a diet high in low-fat dairy products may be preventive.[7][8]
Gout affects about 1 to 2% of the Western population at some point in their lives.[3] It has become more common in recent decades.[1] This is believed to be due to increasing risk factors in the population, such as metabolic syndrome, longer life expectancy, and changes in diet.[3] Older males are most commonly affected.[1] Gout was historically known as "the disease of kings" or "rich man's disease".[3][9] It has been recognized at least since the time of the ancient Egyptians.[3]