Gout is considered one of the most painful types of arthritis. If not yourself, you likely know someone who has had a gout attack. The word attack suggests this is no laughing matter. What exactly goes on during a gout attack -- do you know?
The first gout attack typically follows years of asymptomatic hyperuricemia (high blood uric acid level). Usually a single joint is involved in a gout attack but it is possible that more joints are involved.
In 50% of patients, the big toe is affected initially but the midfoot, ankles, heels, and knees can also be involved early on. Less commonly, wrists, fingers, and elbows are involved in a gout attack. Learn more in Gout Attack Explained.
Related Resources:
- Gout Screening Quiz
- What Are Gout Risk Factors?
- Recognize the Signs and Symptoms of Gout
- 10 Things You Should Know About Gout
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Photo by Don Bayley (iStockphoto)
I suffer terribly with arthritis in my hands but as soon as I stopped eating red meat it made a huge difference. I still eat fish and I can’t resist bacon (who can!) but I’m sure it is because I’m no longer eating the fats in the meat that has helped me.
I’ve had gout for around 10 years now. In my experience the pain moves from one joint to another. Although most of the readings I see say that it’s the big toe that is predominantly affected, that has not been my case. I usually get attacks in my knees or ankles. And they move from one attack to another. Very recently though, I had a dual joint attack (imagine that!). I felt it in both my right knee and right ankle. I had to use two canes just to get anywhere. It’s an awful, awful feeling.
Avoid asparagus, mochi, sticky / glutenous rice, and mushrooms.
The worst gout attacks I’ve had were after eating asparagus and certain types of mushrooms.
Haven’t read too much on gout attacking the shoulder. What a horrible experience. Had an ankle attack two weeks ago and now a shoulder. Giving up alcohol for a while and hope that stops triggering it.