Gout is a common and very painful form of arthritis. One in 100 people develop it and the number of cases are increasing. The good news for those afflicted is that treating gout is quite straightforward, thanks to the introduction of a number of medications.

Gout is caused by the buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream, known as hyperuricaemia. The disease is associated with developed countries, as dietary and lifestyle factors are at the root of most cases of gout. Medications can lead to an increase in uric acid levels and genetics can also play a role.

In gout, the body is unable to handle production of uric acid, which happens naturally when foods are digested. The uric acid forms crystals, leading to inflammation of the joint tissue and lining. This leads to pain, heat and redness in the joints. If gout is not treated, an attack will run its course, but it could take weeks.

Uric acid can also build up in the kidneys, which leads to kidney stones and kidney failure. However, some people do not need to be treated for gout, as they do not have symptoms. They simply have raised levels of uric acid. More men get gout than women, although women are more susceptible to it after menopause.

Treatment options for gout are determined through a series of tests. Doctors may draw a sample of synovial fluid, a fluid which lubricates joints. This will contain uric acid crystals. They may also choose to test for a chalky substance that builds up around the joint itself.

Once gout is diagnosed, a number of medications can be used to treat it. These medications put an end to severe gout attacks, prevent other attacks from happening and also treat the complications associated with gout, such as joint damage.

The first line of defence in treating gout is non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS). In acute gout, they are administered at maximum dosage. Dosage is reduced as symptoms fade. Patients should continue to take NSAIDs until symptoms have been gone for at least two hours.

Colchicine is used both to treat acute attacks of gout and to prevent further attacks from recurring. It reduces the level of joint inflammation throughout the body. Some people use it in small amounts for months, or ingest large amounts over hours. It does not replace other types of medication.

Corticsteroid drugs and hormones containing steroids such as prednisone are used to treat gout in patients who cannot take NSAiDs. They work gradually over a two-week period.

Zyloprin is a drug which is effective in treating those with chronic gout. It works to counteract the systems which manufacture uric acid in the body. It is used to prevent gout attacks, so it is not effective in treating an attack once it has started.

Lifestyle and diet changes are instrumental in the successful treatment of gout. Avoid foods that are rich in purine, a type of protein. These include offal (liver, kidneys), beans, mushrooms and asparagus. Take sensible precautions to lose weight, ensure that you are taking in enough fluid and decrease your consumption of alcohol.

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