## The cause Gout is a condition caused by excessive accumulation of [uric](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarybiomarker?id=169) acid salts in the body. One of the manifestations of this is arthritis, which is inflammation of the joints. Uric acid is produced by the breakdown of purines, which are substances that enter the blood during the metabolism of protein inside the body and food. These are found in beef, seafood, and alcohol. Excess purines provoke a large production of uric acid, as the kidneys do not have time to remove it or cope with it. Uric acid is formed into crystals that accumulate in one or more joints and destroy them. Most often the big toe is affected, and less often the ankle, knee, elbow, and wrist. Crystals of uric acid can be deposited in the heart and blood vessels, as well as in the kidneys, due to which stones are formed. > Gout affects 1-5 % of the population, most often men under the age of 50, and women after menopause. Gout attacks almost always occur at night and last 4-12 hours. They are manifested by sudden burning pain, redness, and swelling of the affected joint. It can last from two days to a week, then symptoms disappear for months or even years. ## What can trigger gout? Uric acid levels are affected by: - Excess weight, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, kidney disease - Excessive consumption of fatty red meat, shellfish, ===other fish, high-fat dairy products, legumes, mushrooms, alcohol (especially beer) and beverages with added sugar - Heart disease and [hypertension](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarydisease?id=173) - Hereditary predisposition to purine metabolism disorders ## How is it treated? First of all, gout should be diagnosed. If the symptoms described above appear, you should consult a rheumatologist, who will prescribe tests: - A blood test to determine the level of uric acid - Analysis of the fluid in the joints to detect its crystals - X-rays of the affected areas and some marker joints - Ultrasound and CT scan of the joints with two radiation sources at different angles If gout is confirmed, the doctor will prescribe medications to reduce uric acid levels as well as relieve symptoms. In addition, it is essential to change your lifestyle and adjust your diet: lose weight, limit alcohol and sweet drinks, avoid foods high in purines, and keep your joints warm by wearing warm clothes in the wintertime. > If gout is left untreated, uric acid levels can remain high, pain attacks will return more frequently, and the joint will eventually collapse. Additionally, complications can arise in the kidneys, blood vessels, and heart.