When I was first approached by a company to participate in a gout awareness campaign, I thought “Why should I care about gout?”
But then I thought my grandfather had mentioned it once and maybe I should at least look into it to see what it is and if it has any kind of genetic component that maybe I should be aware of.
Gout is actually a very painful form of arthritis. It is caused by a build up of uric acid in your blood that crystallizes in joint fluids, causing severe pain. Attacks are usually sudden, and although the big toe is the most common joint affected, it could be any joint.
According to Wikipedia, gout cases are actually on the rise because of genetic factors, other medical factors, extended life expectancy and diet. An attack usually resolves within a week, but if left untreated can cause serious lifelong issues and pain.
Most people (up to 90% according to About.com) that complain of gout attacks are actually men over the age of 40, but it can happen to women and younger people also.
There are medicines that can be taken to help and reduce flair ups and some diet changes can also help prevent future attacks.
Jim Belushi and a group called Creaky Joints are trying to make people more aware of gout symptoms and help people live happier healthier lives.
Check out the following video for more information:
You can also go here to learn more.
Have you ever heard of gout?
Disclosure: This was a sponsored post, but all opinions are 100% my own.