(Before It's News)
One particular type of arthritis targets the joints and tissues around the large toe and foot. This form of arthritis is called gout and it can be quite painful. Attacks of gout can happen sporadically, but they usually occur soon after waking up or during the night.
To have a better understanding of this form of arthritis, let’s look at causes, symptoms, risk factors and how to treat gout naturally.
Causes and symptoms of gout
Gout is caused by an accumulation of uric acid. Uric acid is the result of the body breaking down purines – substances naturally found in the body and the food we eat. Uric acid passes through the body through the kidneys and gets released in urine. When there is too much uric acid it can crystallize and surround joints and tissues. This can lead to redness, pain and burning sensations.
Symptoms of gout include:
- Joint pain – this pain is usually around the big toe. It may also spread to the ankle, foot and knees.
- Discomfort – some joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks.
- Inflammation and redness – the affected joint or joints become swollen, tender, warm and red.
- Limited range of motion – decreased joint mobility may occur as gout progresses.
Risk factors of gout. Continue reading at What is Gout? Symptoms and Natural remedies of Gout