Treatment of gout in a sanatorium

Gout is a condition whose treatment methods were studied even in ancient times. Known colloquially as the “disease of kings,” gout remains relevant despite its relatively low prevalence today. It most commonly affects men over 40 and, less frequently, women after menopause. But what exactly is gout?

Gout is a metabolic disorder characterized by the deposition of uric acid salts in the joints — especially those of the limbs. The primary cause is a persistent excess of uric acid in the blood, which crystallizes and accumulates in the joints, eventually leading to their destruction. Arterial hypertension, obesity, chronic alcohol intoxication, and hyperlipidemia are among the factors that may provoke this disease.

Risk factors include:

Excessive consumption of red meat, fish, coffee, cocoa, chocolate;
Kidney failure;
Increased catabolism of purine nucleotидes;
Elevated synthesis of uric acid combined with reduced excretion from the body.

Symptoms and Stages of Gout

Gout often manifests at night or early in the morning with sudden, severe joint pain, localized swelling, redness, and increased temperature in the affected area. During secondary attacks, pain can appear in other joints as well. Among typical signs of gout are the formation of nodular deposits on hands and feet called tophi, which may rupture. Affected areas are usually very painful.

Complications of gout include:

Gouty arthritis;
Kidney stones (urolithiasis), potentially leading to renal failure.

The progression of gout follows four stages:

Asymptomatic hyperuricemia – elevated uric acid levels without symptoms;
Acute gouty arthritis – sudden onset of inflammation and pain;
Intercritical period – symptom-free intervals between attacks;
Chronic tophaceous gout – accumulation of urate crystals in joints and tissues, leading to permanent damage.

Diagnosis of Gout

A rheumatologist makes the diagnosis based on biochemical blood tests showing high levels of uric acid. Additional diagnostic tools may include X-rays, which reveal joint fluid characteristics, presence of tophi, and bone tissue damage.

Disease progression is assessed using criteria such as:

Clear medical history including two recorded episodes of joint pain and swelling in fingers or toes;
Typical involvement of the big toe joint;

Beyond these indicators, medicine uses several more for accurate diagnosis. Timely detection and effective treatment begin with seeking professional help at the first sign of the disease.

Treatment of Gout at the Sanatorium

An early prescribed treatment course is the key to successful therapy, relief of symptoms, and partial recovery. During acute flare-ups, patients require hospitalization, followed by regular monitoring by medical professionals. For prevention, it's important to undergo various therapeutic programs — some of which are offered by our sanatorium, including:

Infrared sauna;
Cryotherapy;
Shockwave therapy (ESWT);
Electrophoresis;
Diadynamic therapy;
Chakra Stone massage;
Dry carbonic acid baths, and others.

In addition to consulting with medical specialists, patients diagnosed with gout should regularly monitor uric acid levels in the blood. This includes following a strict diet that excludes purine-rich foods, avoiding overeating and fasting, quitting harmful habits, and engaging in moderate physical activity.

Proper care of your health is the guarantee of long life!