Gout in Young Age: Signs and How to Overcome It

Kapanlagi.com - Gout, a disease that can affect anyone regardless of age, is also lurking among young people in their 20s! Unfortunately, many of us are still unaware of the dangers posed by this condition, which is often only detected when it has reached a fairly severe stage.

Typically, gout is characterized by excruciating pain around the feet and knees. However, there are various other symptoms that we need to be aware of to prevent it from getting worse. Let's take a look at a complete explanation of the symptoms of gout that we should know!

1. What is Uric Acid?

Uric acid, or more commonly known as gout arthritis, is a painful joint inflammation condition caused by the accumulation of monosodium urate crystals around the joints. This phenomenon occurs when the levels of uric acid in the blood spike, a condition known as hyperuricemia. As a result, pain and inflammation are inevitable, disrupting daily activities.

Increased levels of uric acid in the blood are usually caused by a diet rich in purines. Foods and drinks to be wary of include alcohol, lamb, bacon, and various types of seafood such as shrimp, sardines, and lobster. In addition to dietary factors, genetics and complications from other diseases, such as diabetes and kidney stones, can also trigger troublesome uric acid levels.

2. Characteristics of Gout That Are Often Unnoticed

3. Pain in the Big Toe and Certain Joints

Gout, the cause of pain that often disrupts comfort, usually attacks the big toe. Various factors can trigger it, ranging from unhealthy eating habits, genetic conditions, to imbalanced metabolic issues. Uric acid crystals tend to settle in the big toe, which has a lower temperature and is far from the heart's blood flow, causing swelling that we may not realize.

However, don't be mistaken! Pain due to gout is not only focused on the big toe. Wrists, knees, feet, and elbows can also feel the effects. The symptoms that arise often resemble rheumatoid arthritis, making it very important to consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis. Don't let the pain disrupt your daily activities!

4. Fever and Chills

The early symptoms of gout often appear in the form of fever and chills, which are actually signs that the body is fighting against something. When uric acid crystals accumulate, they release cytokine proteins that trigger an immune response. This causes inflammation in the joints, making the body work hard to fight off infection and regulate body temperature to be higher.

Cytokines play an important role in building our immune system. However, when these cytokines are released, immunity can decrease, and joint inflammation becomes inevitable. Fever and chills are the body's natural mechanisms to fight infection while also trying to raise body temperature to combat existing threats.

5. The Presence of a Swollen Bump

Uric acid crystals that accumulate in the body can form bumps known as tophi, which often appear on the big toe or other joints. Although they may seem bothersome, these bumps have the potential to shrink or even disappear completely with the right treatment. However, it is important not to ignore them, as if left untreated, tophi can develop into more serious issues.

Proper treatment is key to addressing these tophi bumps. With appropriate measures, you can see positive changes, where the bumps gradually shrink. Conversely, if not addressed promptly, the risk of more severe complications looms, adding to a health burden that should be avoided.

6. Complaints About the Kidneys

Uric acid is not just a joint issue; it can also trigger serious complications in the kidneys, one of which is the formation of kidney stones. The crystals formed due to high levels of uric acid can flow to the kidneys and accumulate, causing unbearable pain. Fortunately, Mitra Keluarga offers effective solutions to address this issue through ESWL and PCNL services, tailored to the severity of your condition.

When uric acid levels become severe, these crystals can block the kidneys and transform into kidney stones. To tackle this problem, two advanced methods, namely ESWL (Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy) and PCNL (Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy), are ready to assist you. With the latest technology, kidney stone treatment becomes safer and more effective, allowing you to return to your activities pain-free.

7. How to Manage Gout

Managing gout not only depends on regular medication but also requires a healthy lifestyle change. At home, you can take some simple yet effective steps, such as increasing your intake of mineral water, applying ice to painful joints, and resting with your legs elevated. Additionally, it is important to avoid foods high in purines and to add low-fat milk or yogurt to your diet.

When dealing with gout, the use of medications such as allopurinol, colchicine, febuxostat, lesinurad, and probenecid should be done under a doctor's supervision. Each patient has different needs, so it is very important to consult with a doctor before starting treatment. With the right approach, you can manage gout and lead a more comfortable life.

8. What are the main causes of gout?

Gout can be caused by various factors, but the two main causes that often arise are the consumption of foods and drinks rich in purines, as well as genetic factors. Additionally, other health conditions such as diabetes and kidney stones can also worsen the risk of developing gout. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to dietary intake and maintain overall health!

9. When should you see a doctor for gout?

If you experience symptoms such as pain while walking or swelling in the feet, or if you want to check your blood uric acid levels, it is advisable to consult a doctor immediately.

(kpl/abh)