A doctor has issued a stark warning as cases of the Victorian-era illness gout continue to rise in the UK, affecting around one in 40 Brits or 2.5% of the population. Data released earlier this year indicates a significant increase in cases in some areas of England, with Liverpool identified as England’s gout hotspot. Speaking on Morning Live, Dr Xand van Tulleken urged people to seek medical attention if they suspect they have gout, emphasising the importance of treatment due to the excruciating pain it causes and the possibility of it being a sign of a serious condition such as a joint infection.
Describing gout as “exquisitely painful,” Dr Xand highlighted the intensity of the pain patients experience, with even gentle contact like a bedsheet touching the affected area triggering extreme discomfort. Symptoms of gout typically include sudden severe pain in joints, commonly the big toe, though it can affect other joints as well. The affected area may become hot, swollen, and red, with the condition potentially leading to permanent joint damage if left untreated.
Treatment options often involve anti-inflammatory painkillers or steroid medications, but Dr Xand stressed the significance of prevention over treatment. He advised those at risk of gout to moderate their intake of foods high in purines, such as fish and seafood, which can contribute to uric acid crystal formation in the joints. Encouraging an increase in fruit and vegetable consumption for their anti-inflammatory properties, he also recommended staying hydrated and engaging in regular exercise to reduce inflammation.
The NHS website states that an untreated gout attack typically lasts between one and two weeks, with subsequent attacks potentially lasting longer and causing further complications. It is crucial for individuals experiencing symptoms of gout to seek medical attention promptly to receive appropriate care and prevent potential long-term consequences.