"What are the Symptoms of Chronic Gout?"
Patients with chronic gout often exhibit symptoms such as joint swelling and pain. Additionally, they may experience systemic discomforts like fever and fatigue.
I. Joint Swelling
1. Acute Attack Phase: During acute attacks of chronic gout, the deposition of uric acid crystals in the joint cavity can lead to redness, swelling, heat, pain, accompanied by significant tenderness and limited mobility.
2. Intermittent Relief Phase: In the intermittent relief phase of chronic gout, no clinical manifestations are typically present, yet there remains a possibility of recurrence.
II. Pain
When gout progresses to the chronic stage, it recurs frequently, manifesting as persistent or intermittent dull and sharp pains in affected joints and surrounding tissues. Sudden onset at night is common, accompanied by chills and fever.
III. Systemic Discomfort
In severe cases, pain may extend to multiple body parts, including the auricle, dorsum of the foot, fingers, wrists, elbows, and knees, accompanied by headaches, fatigue, palpitations, and insomnia. Additionally, some individuals may experience skin itching, desquamation, blisters, and crusting.
It is recommended to maintain a balanced diet, avoiding high-purine foods like animal livers and seafood, to prevent exacerbation of the condition. Adequate rest and avoiding overexertion are also crucial.