WHAT IS GOUT?
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A long term condition that can flare-up as severe inflammatory arthritis
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It is a disorder of metabolism that causes uric acid (a waste product in blood which is also known as urate) to increase in the blood
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Increased uric acid settles in the joints and can cause pain and inflammation
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Risk factors
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Genetics, older age, male gender, some medications, increased alcohol consumption, increased red meat intake
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Signs and Symptoms
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Pain during severe flare ups peaks at 24hrs and settles over 7 to 14 days
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Swelling, redness, tenderness and warmth around joints
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Most common site affected is the big toe, but also commonly impacts the ankle, knee, wrist and fingers
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Limited joint motion and irregular shape of joint
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What to do:
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Three goals of treatment
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Stop severe attacks
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Prevent reappearance of symptoms
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Avoid joint damage
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Anti-inflammatory medication from your GP or pharmacist to reduce joint inflammation
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Medication from your GP to lower urate levels in the body and help slow the formation of urate
Physiotherapy management
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Stop severe flare ups: aim to reduce symptoms by lessening movement of the sore joint and protects the joint to prevent further pain
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Long term management: aim is to maintain range of motion and joint mobility, as well as increasing strength and function of the muscles near the joint
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Your physiotherapist will help develop an exercise program for you to complete regularly to help improve your joint function!
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