What is Gout?
Gout is a form of arthritis characterised by severe pain, redness, and tenderness in joints. An attack of gout can occur suddenly, often waking you up with the sensation that your big toe is on fire.
Signs & Symptoms of Gout
- Intense joint pain — most severe within the first 4–12 hours after onset
- Lingering discomfort lasting days to weeks after the severe pain subsides
- Inflammation and redness — the affected joint becomes swollen, tender, warm, and red
- Limited range of motion as gout progresses
Causes of Gout
Gout occurs when urate crystals accumulate in the joint. Your body produces uric acid when breaking down purines — found in red meat, organ meats, purine-rich seafood, alcohol, and fructose-sweetened drinks.
Diagnosis
- X-ray imaging: To rule out other causes of joint inflammation.
- Joint fluid test: Urate crystals may be visible in fluid drawn from the joint.
Complications
Untreated gout can lead to recurrent attacks, advanced gout (tophi), and kidney stones.
Ayurvedic Treatment for Gout
Ayurveda treats gout by flushing out uric acid through herbal diuretics, dietary modifications, and detoxification therapies. Gout treatment in Ayurveda provides lasting relief without chemical drugs.