Can Be From Fatigue and Lethargy, Here Are the Rarely Realized Signs of Gout

Kapanlagi.com - Gout, or more commonly known as uric acid, is a type of arthritis that can come on suddenly and cause excruciating pain in the joints. This disease is caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints, which usually occurs due to high levels of uric acid in the blood. Unfortunately, many people do not recognize the early symptoms and dismiss them as common complaints. In fact, recognizing these signs early is very important to prevent more serious complications later on.

Dr. Joseph Huffstutter, a rheumatologist, refers to gout as a "great imitator." Why? Because its symptoms often resemble other conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis. Although gout is more common in men, women are also at risk, especially after menopause. However, many symptoms are often overlooked, even though they can signal that our body is experiencing a more serious problem.

The symptoms of gout are not always easy to recognize, especially in the early stages. In this article, we will discuss the signs that are often missed, ranging from pain to swelling in the joints. Recognizing these signs is crucial so that we can receive appropriate treatment promptly and prevent bigger issues. So, stay alert and take care of your joint health!

1. Pain in the Big Toe

Pain in the big toe often serves as an early signal indicating the presence of gout, a condition caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. The pain can be extremely disruptive, even gentle touches like a blanket can trigger excruciating pain.

According to Dr. Huffstutter, this issue generally arises in individuals who have difficulty breaking down uric acid, particularly those with a history of kidney disease or diabetes. This symptom usually appears suddenly and intensely, accompanied by inflammation that makes the toe appear red and feel warm, especially at night when body temperature drops and dehydration occurs.

Unfortunately, many are unaware that this pain is an early sign of gout. Therefore, if the pain persists or worsens, it is important to consult a doctor promptly to obtain an accurate diagnosis.

2. Pain in Other Joints

Gout, although often lurking from the big toe, can actually attack other joints such as the knees, ankles, elbows, and wrists. When uric acid crystals accumulate in several joints, the pain experienced can spread and extend, causing about 25% of patients to experience "polyarticular" symptoms where multiple joints are affected at once.

This symptom can often be confusing because it resembles other arthritis conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis. Therefore, it is important for sufferers to be alert to sudden pain that appears without a clear cause, which could be a sign of gout.

To ensure a diagnosis, further examinations such as joint fluid tests may be necessary. With proper management, pain from this crystal accumulation can be controlled, as if left untreated, this condition can worsen and become more difficult to treat.

3. Sudden and Intense Inflammation

Gout, or uric acid, is known for its symptoms of sudden and intense inflammation, like lightning on a sunny day. Within less than 24 hours, the pain can strike with great severity, then subside within days to weeks, making it different from other types of arthritis that are more stable.

These attacks often occur at night when the body is in a cold and dehydrated state, allowing uric acid crystals to accumulate rapidly in the joints and exacerbate the pain. Although many patients feel fine after an attack passes, this condition is often overlooked in its early stages, so it is important to consult a doctor immediately if you experience these symptoms. Don't wait until the pain returns to haunt your daily activities!

4. Fatigue and Lethargy

Gout not only brings excruciating pain but can also approach us with other equally tormenting symptoms, such as fatigue and a feeling of lethargy that envelops us. When a gout attack strikes, our body can react with fever, chills, and muscle pain similar to flu symptoms, making us feel trapped in an uncomfortable condition.

This severe fatigue can disrupt daily routines, even when joint inflammation begins to subside. Although often considered trivial, the fatigue accompanying severe joint pain can be a signal that we are facing a more serious gout attack, and it is time to seek medical attention before this condition worsens.

5. Formation of Bumps Around Joints (Tophi)

Bumps or nodules that form around the joints are a characteristic symptom more commonly found in patients with chronic gout. These bumps, known as tophi, are accumulations of uric acid crystals that build up under the skin, usually on the fingers, ears, or other joints. Although tophi are not always painful, they can cause deformities in the joints and skin.

Tophi form after years of uric acid accumulation in the body. Typically, tophi will appear in patients who have long experienced gout without proper treatment. If left untreated, tophi can cause permanent damage to the joints and surrounding tissues. Therefore, it is very important to seek treatment as soon as the initial symptoms appear to prevent the formation of tophi.

6. FAQ - Questions and Answers About Uric Acid

What causes gout?

Gout occurs when the body produces too much uric acid or cannot eliminate it properly, leading to the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints.

What are the early symptoms of gout?

The early symptoms of gout often include severe pain in the big toe, joint inflammation, and a burning sensation in the affected area.

How can gout attacks be prevented?

It is important to maintain a healthy diet, avoid excessive alcohol, and control blood sugar and blood pressure levels to prevent the buildup of uric acid.

(kpl/mni)