A form of arthritis characterized by severe burning pain, redness, tenderness and stiffness in joints. Gout is a kind of arthritis caused by uric acid crystals forming in one or more joints.

Symptoms

• Usually start at night
• Very common in the big toe joint but can also occur in other joints
• Affected joint becomes red, feels hot, and painful.
• Pain increases when the joint is touched.

Causes & Risk Factors

• Foods that are rich in purines increase the risk for gout – Salmon, sardines, organ meats, asparagus, mushrooms and herring are examples of foods rich in purines.
• Gout is hereditary.
• Overweight, Alcohol, High cholesterol, Diabetes, high blood pressure
• Men develop gout more often than women.

Treatment

• Rest
• Pain relievers & anti-inflammatory medications – Motrin, Advil and Naproxen

Patient teaching – Teach patient to

• Take all medication as prescribed.
• Inform the MD before taking any aspirin product because aspirin can interfere with other medications
• Lose weight if patient is overweight.
• Seek treatment promptly for high blood pressure, high cholesterol or diabetes
• Follow diet prescribed – low-salt, & low-fat diet.
• To avoid alcohol and foods that are high in purines.
• To drink lots of water to help flush uric acid from the body.

Complications

• When gout is not treated, a gout attack can last for days or even weeks.
• Prolong attacks for many years may lead to TOPHI – uric acid crystals that form lumps under the skin.
  • Tophi usually form on the toes, fingers, hands and elbows.
• Gout may also lead to kidney disease or kidney stones from uric acid crystals that collect in the urinary tract.

Reference: Lewis & Heitkemper, Med-Surg Nursing 2007

Rophem Nursing 🙂