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Gout is a type of arthritis characterised by the build-up of uric acid crystals in various joints and tissues, which can lead to severe pain, inflammation, and swelling. This condition can develop due to the body overproducing uric acid or the kidneys' inability to efficiently eliminate it. Gout can profoundly impact an individual's quality of life, causing substantial discomfort and limiting mobility. Certain factors may predispose individuals to gout, such as a diet rich in purines, which are found in certain meats and seafood, alcohol consumption, obesity, and certain medications.

In Mysore, gout poses a considerable health challenge. Sedentary lifestyle habits coupled with purine-rich foods in dietary patterns could increase gout incidents. Apollo Hospital in Mysore provides treatment for gout with top-tier specialists and highly qualified treatment doctors who deliver exceptional care.

Types/Stages of Gout

Gout progresses through several stages:

• Asymptomatic Gout (Asymptomatic Hyperuricemia): High uric acid levels are present in the blood, but no symptoms are visible.

• Acute Gout: Characterised by sudden intense pain, swelling and redness in one or more joints due to urate crystal formation.

• Intercritical Gout (Interval Gout): A period between acute attacks with no symptoms. However, urate crystal accumulation continues.

• Chronic Tophaceous Gout: The most severe stage where large crystals form in joints leading to permanent joint damage.

Symptoms of Gout

The symptoms associated with Gout include:

• Severe pain, usually starting from the big toe and later spreading to other joints

• Affected joints become red, swollen and tender

• Range of motion gets limited

• Persistent joint soreness after an acute attack

Tests to Diagnose Gout

To diagnose gout, treatment specialists at Apollo Hospitals employ several tests:

• Uric Acid Blood Test: Used to measure the level of uric acid in the blood.

• Joint Aspiration: Involves extracting and examining joint fluid for the presence of urate crystals.

• X-rays: Useful in detecting any joint damage and the presence of tophi.

• Dual Energy CT Scan: This advanced imaging technique helps detect urate crystals in joints.

• Ultrasound: Employed to spot urate crystals in the affected joints.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Gout at Apollo Hospitals in Mysore

Consulting with the best doctors for gout treatment or specialists for uric acid can help you manage this condition effectively. Several treatment options are available at Apollo Hospitals in Mysore:

• Medications: The doctors prescribe drugs that reduce uric acid levels and manage pain during acute attacks.

• Dietary Changes: Patients are advised to limit purine-rich foods, stay hydrated and maintain a healthy weight.

• Surgical Options: In severe cases where there is significant joint damage, surgical options like tophi removal, arthroscopic uric acid crystal removal, joint fusion and even joint replacement is recommended.