Gout is a type of arthritis that has been identified for over 2000 years. It is a type of inflammation of the joints, accompanied by severe joint pain and swelling. Gout generally affects the big toe, most times suddenly and the affected person experiences severe pain. However, gout can also affect the ears, ankles, elbows, knees and wrists.

When the level of uric acid deposition in the body exceeds the normal level, then this condition called gout is caused. Uric acid (natural waste in the human body) gets deposited in the joints of the body causing them to swell. This condition is seen commonly in middle-aged men and also in women after menopause.

Causes of Gout

Uric acid, which is the end product of the body’s chemical processes is removed by the kidneys and discarded from the blood and body via urine. However, in those suffering from gout, the amount of uric acid in the blood is high because of more uric acid formation or low amounts of uric acid being discarded by the kidneys through urine. Uric acid is usually found dissolved in the blood. However, when their levels increase in the blood, uric acid crystals or needles are formed which then get deposited in the different joints, thereby causing the pain, inflammation and swelling. Read the rest of this entry »