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The symptoms, and problems associated with gout affect a great many people. Although, it is rare in children and young adults, gout is still estimated to occur in approximately 840 out of every 100,000 people. Adult men, between the ages of 40 and 50, are those most likely to develop gout. Adult women may also be affected, but rarely develop the disorder before menopause. The symptoms of gout can be quite difficult for doctors to diagnose because they can be rather vague, and may often mimic other conditions. One of the conditions would be a joint infection. This can either be confirmed, or ruled out by checking for the presence of bacteria. In order to confirm a diagnosis of gout, a doctor may draw a sample of synovial fluid (this substance lubricates the joint) through the use of a needle inserted into an inflamed joint. This fluid sample is then examined by a microscope with the technician looking for the presence of monosodium urate crystals. However, this is not totally conclusive. The absence of these crystals does not completely rule out the gout diagnosis. Additional gout testing may include the examining of the chalky, sodium urate deposits (tophi) located around the joints. Common Gout Symptoms * Severe pain in the area of a joint. * The presence of uric acid crystals in the joint fluid. * Multiple attacks of acute arthritis. * A swollen, red, and warm joint that developed arthritis in one day. * Hyperuricemia (a high level of uric acid in the blood). * Arthritis attacks effecting only one joint, usually a knee, ankle, or toe. This is referred to as Monoarticular Gout, and 60% of the time will turn up in the big toe. * Symptoms in the elderly will usually occur in the joints of the upper extremities; especially in the fingers. These gout symptoms will occur in multiple joints, and are referred to as Polyarticular Gout. * Additional associated symptoms of gout may include, fever, chills, and a loss of appetite. Should you be diagnosed with gout, it will be very important for you to take any prescribed medication regularly, adhere to any lifestyle changes that you have been advised to make, follow the necessary dietary changes, and maintain a healthy weight. Recognizing gout symptoms, and controlling the condition will greatly enhance ones quality of life. Copyright ©2007 Carl DiNello
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Carl DiNello is an Article Author and Wesbite Owner whose articles are featured on websites covering the Internets most popular topics.
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