Gout: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Gout is a painful inflammatory joint disease caused by high levels of uric acid in the blood.

Uric acid forms when the body breaks down purines, which are found naturally in the body and in certain foods. When uric acid levels become too high, sharp urate crystals can collect in the j oints, tendons, and surrounding tissues, triggering sudden attacks of severe pain, swelling, redness, and heat.

Gout most often affects the big toe, ankles, knees, fingers, wrists, and other joints. Gout typically develops in stages. Dur- _ ing the first stage acid levels are elevated but no symptoms are present. The second stage is acute gouty arthritis—marked by sudden painful attacks. The third stage refers to symptom-free periods between attacks. During the final stage, urate deposits form visible nodules that can lead to stiffness, deformity and long-term joint damage.

Diagnosis is often confirmed by examining joint fluid under a microscope, through a blood test, and in some cases based on sudden single-joint arthritis, and a strong response to gout medication.

Common gout treatments include colchicine, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and steroids. For prevention, doctors may recommend low-dose colchicine oruric-acid-loweringmedication.

From an eastern medicine perspective, gout is often viewed as a painful obstruction condition related to damp-heat, phlegm, and blood stagnation. Treatment may include acupuncture, moxibustion, herbal medicine, and lifestyle changes to reduce inflammation, improve digestion, and preventing recurrence. Weight management, staying hydrated, and limiting alcohol can help reduce gout risk.

People who experience sudden severe joint pain, swelling, redness, or recurrent flares, should consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

— Dr. Yeung H. Kwon, L.Ac, OMD, Ph.D Optum HCC, Leisure World Seal Beach

Dr. Yeung H. Kwon