The Long-Term Effects of Gout

Gout can be a debilitating and painful form of arthritis caused by an excess of uric acid crystals in the bloodstream.  If you experience gout more than a couple of times a year, it is considered chronic and may lead to serious long-term effects described as follows:

Tophi

A tophus is a formation or deposit of monosodium urate and can collect under the skin which manifests as small white lumps.  Tophi are typically painless but can appear in some awkward areas of the body such as the rim of the ears, forearms, toes and fingers.  Some have been found in the spinal and vocal cords.  Elderly women are the most common candidates for tophi.  In some instances, tophi can become enlarged and be painful enough to affect your daily routine such as cooking and dressing, however they can be removed surgically if necessary.

Kidney stones

Kidney stones can develop from the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the kidney as your body attempts to eliminate them in the urine.  This accumulation sometimes occurs in the urinary tract as well which can interfere with urine flow and can be extremely painful.  The stones can also lead to secondary infection.  The majority of kidney stones pass on their own, however drinking a lot of water will help move them through your system.  There are also medications which facilitate this process, helping to reduce the size of the stones, making it less painful.  It is important to recognize the importance of eliminating the kidney stones, as they can impair function if they remain in the kidneys for too long a period of time.

Joint damage

The joints are particularly vulnerable in one who is subject to episodes of gouty arthritis and these frequent attacks can damage the joints permanently.  Chronic gout must be treated with medications in order to minimize and prevent these crystalline formations from settling in the joints.  The most common areas affected are the toes, ankles, elbows, fingers, heels, wrists and knees and the damage can result in deformity and a limited range of motion.

Psychological effects

As with most chronic pain, the pain of repeated or long-term gout can cause feelings of depression or anxiety, as well as sadness and loss of control.  The pain may make it difficult to be independent, and one may have to rely on others to get around.  It is extremely important to talk to your health care professional if gout is affecting your life psychologically, as these symptoms can impact your quality of life and impede your progress to get well.

There is hope for those who suffer from frequent gout.  The long term consequences can be minimized by drinking plenty of water and following a diet that restricts alcohol and meat-based proteins as well as taking medications as directed that lower the level of uric acid in the bloodstream. Such medications include allopurinol (Xyloprim) and benemid (Probenecid).  There are also NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) and corticosteroids such as prednisone that serve to reduce inflammation of the joints.  It is wise to discuss your specific situation in order to get the optimal care.