Gout is a chronic disease caused by high uric acid levels in the blood, leading to uric acid crystal deposits in joints and severe pain. This article explains the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment principles, preventive lifestyle habits, and related medical support systems based on official data. It aims to provide accurate information to help readers understand.
What is Gout
Gout is metabolic arthritis resulting from hyperuricemia. It is more common in men, with high incidence in ages 30-50.
Uric acid, a purine metabolism byproduct, is normally excreted through the kidneys, but insufficient excretion or overproduction raises blood levels. This forms uric acid crystals in joints, causing acute inflammation.
Gout patients are increasing overall, with about 490 per 100,000 people recently. This is due to dietary changes and rising obesity.
Main Gout Symptoms
Acute Gout Attack Symptoms
The most common symptom is sudden severe pain in the big toe joint. It starts at night, peaks within 12 hours, with swelling, redness, and warmth.
The pain is unbearable even from a light touch like wind. Attack duration is 3-10 days depending on treatment.
Chronic Gout Symptoms
Repeated attacks form gout tophi (tophi nodules) under the skin. They appear on knees, ankles, ears, etc., and may accompany kidney stones or impaired function.
Gout Causes and Risk Factors
Main Causes
Hyperuricemia is key. Causes include uric acid overproduction (overeating, drinking) or reduced excretion (kidney dysfunction).
Genetic factors, obesity, hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia increase risk when part of metabolic syndrome.
Risk Factors
- Excessive purine intake: organ meats, anchovies, mackerel, etc.
- Alcohol: especially beer.
- Diuretic use or dehydration.
Female hormones aid uric acid excretion, so postmenopausal women see increased incidence.
Gout Diagnosis Methods
Blood tests check serum uric acid (men ≥7mg/dL, women ≥6mg/dL). Diagnosis possible during attacks even with normal levels.
Confirmation via joint fluid extraction and polarized microscopy for uric acid crystals. Ultrasound or DECT (dual-energy CT) used for tophi.
Gout Treatment Principles
Acute Attack Treatment
Colchicine, NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), steroids within 12 hours of onset. Continue 7-10 days after pain relief.
Uric Acid Lowering Treatment
For ≥2 attacks/year, tophi, kidney issues: long-term allopurinol, febuxostat. Goal: maintain blood uric acid ≤6mg/dL.
Treatment duration varies; lifelong management may be needed for relapse prevention.
Gout Prevention Lifestyle
- Weight control: obesity increases uric acid production.
- Diet: low-purine foods (vegetables, low-fat dairy), drink ≥2L water daily.
- No alcohol: especially ≥2 times/week.
- Exercise: regular aerobic activity.
Gout preventable in 90% of cases through lifestyle improvements.
Related Medical Support Systems
Gout (M10 code) is covered by National Health Insurance, allowing treatment with minimal out-of-pocket costs.
For low-income groups, Catastrophic Medical Expense Support covers 50-80% of copays for excessive costs. Applies to combined inpatient/outpatient up to 180 days/year if income/asset criteria met. Subject to policy changes; check latest info. Category Details Insurance Coverage Full M10 code treatments under health insurance Target Group Income ≤100% median, assets ≤700M KRW household Support Level 50-80% copay relief, annual 50M KRW limit Application Period Within 180 days of final treatment Notes Exclusions (e.g., screenings), individual review
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I go to hospital immediately for a gout attack?
Yes, early treatment is effective. Medication within 12 hours shortens pain. Delay may extend to over 2 weeks.
How long to take gout medication?
Acute phase 7-10 days; uric acid reducers long-term for prevention. Reassess after 3-6 stable months; lifelong if needed.
Good foods for gout?
Cherries, strawberries, low-fat milk, vegetables help. Drink plenty of water. Avoid organ meats, alcohol.
Can women get gout?
Yes. Predominant in men, but increases post-menopause due to hormonal excretion differences.
Are gout tophi dangerous?
Can cause kidney damage. Uric acid lowering dissolves them, but neglect raises complications.
Must-Check Items Before Gout Support Application
Before applying for gout-related medical support, verify directly on official government or public institution sites:
- Personal income/asset eligibility.
- Current year limits and exclusions.
- Treatment code (M10) and scope.
- Latest application periods and procedures.
- Policy changes (may vary annually).
How to Check Latest Gout Management Info
Gout requires ongoing management as a chronic condition. Treatment and support may change with policy updates, so confirm via Ministry of Health and Welfare or National Health Insurance Service official announcements. Recommend regular checkups for uric acid monitoring and medical consultations.