Gout Arthritis Symptoms - Oh My Aching Big Toe!

Gout is one of the worst forms of arthritis and is a progressive condition with no cure. This does not mean no hope though, there are many different treatment plans that can be developed to help gout patients live a long, happy life.

How do you know if you have gout or if you are merely experiencing some achy joints? Gouty arthritis symptoms are fairly severe and come on extremely fast. They include extreme pain, decreased mobility in the joint, redness, swelling and warmth in the affected area. Gout often is first noticed or begins in the big toe, then when left untreated can spread to other small joints like ankles, knees, fingers, wrists and elbows.

Gout is caused by excessive levels of uric acid which crystallizes in the body and settles into the connective tissue in smaller joints. While, uric acid is produced in the body, most excessive levels come from a diet high in purines. Purines are found in foods high in protein and should be avoided by those who suffer from gouty arthritis symptoms. Some of the foods highest in purines are red meats, some forms of seafood, yeast, bacon and some poultry. Medication can also be used to control the level of uric acid produced in the body, therefore lessening the symptoms and episodes.

When considering your gouty arthritis symptoms, it's important to work with your doctor and a trained gout diet nutritionist to put together the best, more cohesive treatment plan and be able to live with minimal gout episodes and symptoms. When left untreated gout can spread to other small joints and can cause permanent damage to joints and the kidneys. Always talk with your doctor even the first time you think you are having a gout episode or are experiencing severe pain in your big toe or other small joints. Keep track of when the episode came on, the symptoms involved with that particular episode and how long the episode lasted. This is all important information to share with your doctor so he/she can accurate diagnose your gouty arthritis symptoms and help bring you relief.