Acute gouty arthritis (gout)
Alternative names:
gout - acute; gouty arthritis - acute
Treatment:
The objectives of treatment are mainly to stop the pain and inflammation associated with the initial attack, and to prevent future attacks.
Medications:
Colchicine is one of the anti-inflammatory medications that is effective in reducing the pain, swelling, and inflammation associated with acute gout attacks. The pain usually subsides within 12 hours of starting treatment and is completely relieved in 48 hours. The medication works by decreasing the inflammation caused by uric acid crystals within the joint. However, it does not decrease the uric acid levels in the bloodstream. Daily use of colchicine or allopurinol helps prevent future attacks.
Codeine or other analgesics may occasionally be prescribed for pain relief.
Increased fluid intake prevents the formation of kidney stones.
Sometimes a diet low in purines is prescribed. Organ meats, beer, wine, and certain types of fish contain high levels of purines.
Expectations (prognosis):
Treatment of acute attacks allows people to live a normal life. The acute form of the disease may progress to chronic disease. Symptoms are generally worse in people who develop the disease before age 30. Also, since uric acid is normally eliminated by the kidneys, chronic gout may lead to formation of uric acid kidney stones (renal calculi).
Complications:
Calling your health care provider:
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms occur that are suggestive of acute gouty arthritis.
Picture:
P0673.pctUric acid crystals
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