Gout

Gout is characterised as a form of arthritis that presents when there is excess uric acid in the blood. Uric acid is the end product of purine metabolism and normally the body can excrete uric acid by utilising the enzyme uricase. Some people lack the enzyme uricase and this causes the accumulation of uric acid, which at a high enough concentration will crystallise out of solution into a needle-shaped crystal. The most commonly affected joint is the joint of the big toe. Repeated attacks of gout will lead to joint destruction.

Contributing factors: obesity, improper diet (excess food and alcohol consumption), crash dieting, anti-cancer medications, overeating, stress, surgery or injury to a joint.

Symptoms: acute pain, inflammation, red, swollen, warm and sensitive joint/s.

Who to consult: Dietician, GP, herbalist, homoeopath, physical therapist, podiatrist, rheumatologist.