H PLUS Hanoi - H PLUS 국제의료센터 - H PLUS International Medical Center (H+)

Gout is an increasingly common joint condition that significantly affects patients’ health and quality of life. Early recognition of the signs and symptoms allows for timely treatment and prevention of serious complications.

TÓM TẮT BÀI VIẾT

1. What Is Gout?

Gout (also known as gouty arthritis) is a form of inflammatory arthritis characterized by intense joint pain, swelling, redness, and heat—most commonly affecting the big toe, fingers, and knees. The disease has two main types: acute gout and chronic gout. Based on its cause, gout can also be classified into three types: primary, secondary, and congenital.

Primary & congenital gout: Largely genetic or related to individual predisposition.
Secondary gout: Associated with purine metabolism disorders and impaired kidney function in eliminating uric acid. When blood uric acid levels exceed the threshold, urate crystals deposit in the joints, causing painful inflammation and triggering gout.

Once considered a “disease of affluence” affecting mainly men, gout is now also seen increasingly in women—especially post-menopausal—and even younger adults. An unhealthy diet rich in purines and excessive alcohol consumption contribute significantly to the rise in gout cases.

2. What Are the Symptoms of Gout?

Gout attacks often begin suddenly at night and may be mistaken for other joint conditions. The following are typical signs to watch for:

Severe joint pain: Usually affects the big toe but can also occur in fingers and knees. Pain intensifies in the first 4–12 hours, presenting as burning, stabbing discomfort.
Prolonged pain: After the acute phase, pain may subside slightly but persist as dull aches for days or weeks. Without treatment, attacks may become more frequent and last longer.
Swelling and redness: The affected joint becomes swollen, red, warm, and painful to touch.
Limited mobility: As the disease progresses, joint flexibility is reduced, affecting daily activities.

If these symptoms appear, it’s essential to seek medical attention from a specialist for accurate diagnosis and timely treatment to avoid complications.

3. How to Reduce the Symptoms of Gout

Gout symptoms can be managed and flare-ups minimized by combining medication, dietary changes, and lifestyle modifications.

3.1. Medication

Most gout patients require medication to reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and prevent complications. Common drug classes include:

NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs): Reduce pain and inflammation.
Colchicine: Used to control acute gout attacks.
Corticosteroids: Prescribed for severe cases unresponsive to other treatments.

Doctors may also prescribe medications that lower uric acid production or enhance its excretion through the kidneys.

3.2. A Balanced Diet

Nutrition plays a key role in gout management. Patients should:

Drink plenty of water to help flush out uric acid.
Limit purine-rich foods such as seafood, organ meats, red meat, and legumes.
Avoid alcohol, tobacco, and stimulants that increase gout attack risk.
Eat more green vegetables, fruits, and low-fat dairy products to support joint health.

3.3. Healthy Lifestyle

Maintain a healthy weight through light physical activity; avoid overexertion.
Manage stress, as emotional instability can worsen symptoms.
Apply cold compresses to inflamed joints to relieve pain and swelling.
Attend regular check-ups and monitor uric acid levels.

3.4. Medical Intervention When Needed

In advanced cases, with persistent joint inflammation or complications, doctors may recommend arthroscopic surgery. Joint replacement may be necessary if joints are severely damaged.

Listening to your body, recognizing early symptoms, and seeking timely medical care are the most effective ways to manage gout and prevent serious consequences.

4. Where to Get Checked for Gout?

At H PLUS International Medical Center, patients can experience in-depth diagnostic and treatment services that meet international standards.

Highly experienced medical team:

Gout diagnosis and treatment are handled by musculoskeletal specialists with years of experience in major hospitals, both in Vietnam and internationally.
Korean consultants contribute additional expertise for accurate and efficient treatment planning.

Advanced equipment:

MRI, CT scan, and high-resolution joint ultrasound detect joint damage at early stages.
Bone densitometry machines assess bone density and monitor long-term complications of chronic gout.
Arthroscopy technology is used for precise evaluation of joint damage.

Comprehensive care and patient-focused service:

Structured follow-up schedules to monitor disease progression.
Modern, clean facilities with a comfortable waiting area.
Weekend availability for patients with busy schedules.
Fast insurance processing to maximize patient benefits.

Contact H PLUS via hotline: +84 24-7306-9889 for detailed consultation and to book your appointment today.

Phòng khám Đa khoa Quốc tế H PLUS – H PLUS International Medical Center (H PLUS Hanoi)

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Hotline: 024 7306 9889
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