Gout

Symptoms: One of the main symptoms of Gout is waking up in the middle of the night with a sudden and very severe throbbing pain in the one joint, often the big toe, which is swollen (inflamed) and feels warm and tender. If the illness is not treated, the Gout attacks may occur more often and may last longer. Gout occurs more commonly in men, women after menopause and people with kidney disease.

Causes: Gout is a form of Arthritis, which is a result of too much uric acid 9 a waste product) in the body. The level of uric acid is so high that uric acid crystals are deposited in the joints and a painful inflammation occurs. Over time the crystals form lumps (tophi) which if untreated can damage the joint. Gout can be caused by severe illness, surgery or a joint injury.

Gout was once wrongly thought to be a 'disease of the rich and kings' because it seemed to be a result of overindulging in rich foods and wine. Although your diet and excessive alcohol can have something to do with Gout, they do not cause the illness.

Treatment: There is no cure for Gout but it can be controlled by medication and watching your diet. Ice or cooling lotions will help against the pain.