What Is Gout?

Gout is one of the most commonly recorded medical issues seen through history. It can be classified as a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. Uric acid is a breakdown component of many of the foods we eat. If an individual's body has abnormalities in processing this acid, it can lead to intense arthritis pain. Gout can also result in multiple other medical issues. If you have any questions about gout and its symptoms, contact our rheumatologist on Long Island today!

Symptoms and Causes of Gout

Gout is an extremely common illness that can affect individuals of all ages. Luckily, gout is easily diagnosed by a medical professional. Symptoms of gout include:

• Nodules under the skin
• Joint redness
• Swollen joints
• Joint pain
• Warmth of joints
• Limited range of motion
• Lingering discomfort

The main cause of gout is the formation of crystals on the joint. The crystals are caused by uric acid that the body produces when it breaks down purines. To prevent gout, avoid foods high in purines and other risk factors. Factors that increase the likelihood of gout include:

• Diet: Eating foods that are rich in meat, seafood, sugars, or alcoholic beverages can increase your levels of uric acid and lead to gout.
• Obesity: When overweight the kidneys have a harder time filtering uric acid.
• Medical conditions: Conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes can increase the risk of gout.
• Family history: If other members of your family have had gout, you are at a greater risk.
• Age and sex: Gout is most common in men ages 30 - 50, mainly because men typically have higher levels of uric acid.

If you believe you could be suffering from gout, call our rheumatologist on Long Island to schedule an appointment.

How We Can Help

At New York Integrated Rheumatology, we believe in an individualized approach to your medical needs. Our focus is to identify and treat the underlying causes of the disease and view the body as a connected system. We hope individuals experience lifestyle changes through diet, nutrition, exercise, and stress management. Contact our rheumatologist on Long Island to begin your individualized treatment plan today!