Gout is a condition that develops when your body cannot properly get rid of a chemical called uric acid. This chemical is naturally produced in the body when it processes certain foods. The processing of purines, which are chemicals present in your body and certain foods, can lead to the formation of uric acid. In normal cases, your body gets rid of uric acid through urine as a waste product. But certain health conditions and some other factors might interfere with the elimination of this chemical properly thereby increasing its concentration.
If high amounts of uric acid are present in your body, it can lead to the formation and accumulation of urate crystals in your joints thereby resulting in pain and inflammation.
Even though gout is treatable, you should be able to recognize the symptoms caused by this condition during the initial stages to start the treatment before it becomes worse. It can be difficult for you to diagnose the presence of this condition, as its symptoms can mimic the symptoms caused by some other health conditions. Additionally, a lot of people tend to ignore the gout symptoms during the initial stages. This can make their condition worse by damaging other organs and systems in the body.
Therefore, it is important for you to be aware of different gout symptoms to detect the presence of this chronic health condition.
Pain In The Big Toe
Gout often affects the joints in your big toe, hence, the pain and inflammation in the joints of the big toe can be a clear sign of this illness. If not treated properly, it can damage the joints permanently. So if you experience pain, swelling, redness, inflammation, etc. in your big toe, then make sure to visit your doctor for diagnosing whether you are suffering from gout.
Pain In Knees, Wrists, Elbows, And Ankles
Apart from the big toe, these joints can be also be affected by gout. So if you experience severe pain and inflammation in them, then you may have gout.
Acute Pain That Strikes You In The Middle Of The Night
Gout pain and flare-ups can occur suddenly and unexpectedly in the middle of the night. If you wake up from your sleep with severe pain in your big toe or other joints, then it can be a sign of gout.
Fatigue
Gout flare-ups can be often accompanied by a lack of energy or fatigue. Hence, if you feel extremely tired along with other symptoms, then pay your doctor a visit.
If you experience these symptoms, then do not ignore them, as they can be an indicator that you are suffering from gout. Ignoring them can make your condition worse. So make sure to get proper treatment at the right time.
