A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF CAUSES, SYMPTOMS, AND TREATMENTS OF GOUT

Dr. Dev Prakash Dahiya, *Manjula Verma, Anchal Sankhyan, Bhavneshwari Devi, Palak Kumari

ABSTRACT

Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis characterized by the accumulation of urate crystals in the joints, which results in severe pain, swelling, and redness. It affects primarily the big toe, but it may involve other joints, such as ankles, knees, and wrists. The primary cause of gout is hyperuricemia; that is, elevated levels of uric acid in the blood lead to the formation of crystals in the joints. The contributing factors to hyperuricemia include genetic predisposition, dietary habits such as excessive intake of purine-rich food and alcoholic beverages and fructose, obesity, and comorbid conditions including hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and kidney diseases. Other contributory medications include diuretics that increase uric acid levels in the body. The clinical presentation of gout is acute and recurrent, usually starting with a sudden and intense attack of pain, typically at night. The affected joints become red, swollen, and extremely tender. Symptoms usually resolve within a few days or weeks, often with or without treatment. If left untreated, chronic gout can cause joint damage and the formation of tophi, which are deposits of urate crystals under the skin. This comprehensive review delves into the pathogenesis, clinical presentation, diagnostic criteria, and treatment options available for gout, stressing early intervention and lifestyle modifications to prevent recurrent episodes and long-term joint damage.

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