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Gouty arthritis or gout is a kind of arthritis that is caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints. There are two kinds of gouty arthritis. The acute form is severe and usually affects only one joint. The chronic form is less severe and affects more than one joint. Gouty arthritis commonly affects the big toe but it can also affect the foot, ankles, knees, wrists, fingers, elbows. This form of arthritis is seen more frequently in men than in women. Gout is caused when the levels of uric acid in the body increases. This happens because the body produces excess uric acid or cannot process and remove uric acid efficiently. The joints are lubricated by a fluid called the synovial fluid. When uric acid crystals accumulate in this fluid and in the synovial lining, it causes painful inflammation. The white blood cells of the immune system attacks and engulfs the uric acid crystals, resulting in inflammation, pain, heat and redness of the tissues around the joint. Besides inflammation, excruciating joint pain which develops at night and fever are also symptoms of gouty arthritis. Non steroidal anti inflammatory medications and pain killers can be used to relieve pain and swelling. Medications like allopurinol or probenecid can help reduce the levels of uric acid in the body. Some alterations in diet and lifestyle may also be recommended to control the levels of uric acid.
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