Gout
Gout manifests as a type of arthritis marked by intense inflammation in one or more joints due to the accumulation of uric acid crystals. Typically afflicting men more than women, it often runs in families. Unlike other arthritis types that progress gradually, gout strikes suddenly, often overnight. While the big toe is a common target, any joint—be it in the hands, wrists, knees, ankles, or elbows—can suffer, leading to excruciating pain where even the light pressure of a bedsheet can become unbearable.
Several factors increase susceptibility to gout, including the use of diuretics, obesity, kidney disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or abnormal lipid levels. Certain foods also heighten the risk by promoting uric acid formation, such as meats (particularly beef, pork, lamb, and liver), seafood (especially anchovies, herring, mackerel, sardines, fish roe, mussels, and scallops), and vegetables like asparagus, kidney beans, lima beans, lentils, and spinach. Additionally, yeast-containing food supplements like beer, Vegemite, and alcohol, especially beer and spirits and high-fructose beverages, contribute to gout.
Moreover, individuals with specific blood disorders like leukemia or lymphoma or undergoing cancer treatment are susceptible to gout. Fortunately, prompt treatment can alleviate pain and inflammation, typically subsiding within a few weeks. Untreated gout, however, poses long-term risks. Community pharmacists play a crucial role in weight management, smoking cessation, and promoting a healthy diet, all beneficial in gout management. They can also guide when to seek medical assistance for proper condition management.
