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Gout vs. Arthritis: What’s the Difference and Health?
Having joint pain is one of the most common complaints of people needing medical attention. One of the most common types of joint pain is gout and arthritis. But what are the differences between these two medical conditions, and what are their health implications?
What is Gout?
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by elevated levels of uric acid in the bloodstream, which leads to the deposition of urate crystals in the joints. Symptoms of gout include redness, pain and swelling in the affected joint, while recurring gout attacks may result in a longer-lasting joint stiffness.
What is Arthritis?
Arthritis is an umbrella term for a wide range of conditions in which the body’s joints are inflamed. Common causes of arthritis include mechanical joint wear and tear, infection, and an overactive immune system. Symptoms of arthritis include stiffness, swelling, and pain, with joint stiffness lasting longer than that of gout.
What Are the Health Implications of Gout vs. Arthritis?
Gout can be treated using medications and lifestyle changes, while the long-term health implications of the condition typically depend on each individual’s lifestyle. Risk factors for developing gout can include excessive alcohol intake and foods that are high in purines, a compound found in some foods.
Arthritis can cause severe disability and disability-related costs, depending on the severity and type. Some common types of arthritis can be managed with medications and lifestyle changes, while others such as rheumatoid arthritis require long-term medical care and support.
Conclusion
Gout and arthritis are different medical conditions that share some common characteristics; both of them can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints. Furthermore, the health implications of each condition can range from manageable to disabling, depending on the type and severity. Finding out which type and severity of either condition you may have is best determined with the help of a professional doctor.
