Infusion Therapy for Gout in Glen Burnie, MD

Gout is arthritis that is brought on by an abnormal buildup in the blood and joints of uric acid. Uric acid is formed during the body’s breakdown process of purines, which are natural compounds found in many foods and beverages.

The primary cause of gout is a genetic disorder that affects the body’s ability to remove uric acid from the blood. Typically, the kidneys filter the blood and get rid of extra uric acid, which is then released into the urine. In those who have gout, the kidneys cannot remove enough uric acid from the blood, leading to an accumulation of excess uric acid in the bloodstream and joints.

The underlying genetic disorder that causes gout is an imbalance in the genes that regulate purine metabolism. This imbalance comes from genetic mutations, including mutations in the SLC22A12 gene, which codes for the urate transporter protein that helps to remove uric acid from the blood.

Along with genetic factors, other things contribute to and can increase the risk of developing gout, which include:

• High levels of purine-rich foods in the diet
• Increased production of purines by the body
• Some specific medical conditions, like kidney disease or diabetes
• Some medications, like diuretics or cyclosporine
• Obesity and physical inactivity

Overall, gout is a complex condition that is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

In some cases, infusions may be used to manage severe gout attacks or flares. These infusions are typically used in hospital settings and are aimed at reducing inflammation and relieving symptoms. Some common infusions used for gout include:

• Colchicine: A medication that reduces inflammation and relieves pain.
• Steroids: Such as methylprednisolone or prednisone, which reduce inflammation and swelling.
• Hydroxychloroquine: An antimalarial medication that can help reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms.
• Anti-inflammatory medications: Such as diclofenac or indomethacin, can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

In rare cases, infusions may also be used to remove excess uric acid from the blood, such as:

• Urate oxidase enzyme replacement therapy: This type of therapy involves replacing the defective enzyme responsible for breaking down uric acid with a functional one.
• Renal replacement therapy: In severe cases of gout, hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis may be necessary to remove excess uric acid from the blood.

It’s important to note that infusions are typically reserved for severe cases of gout that are not responding to oral medications or have caused significant organ damage.

The time it takes to recover from gout treatment can vary depending on the severity of the attack, the effectiveness of the treatment, and individual factors such as age and overall health.

For acute gout attacks, symptoms can typically resolve within a couple of days to about a week with the correct treatment. Medications such as colchicine, corticosteroids, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) help limit inflammation and relieve pain.

In most cases, people with gout can return to their normal activities within 2-7 days after the onset of symptoms. Keep in mind that it can take some time for the joint to fully recover from the inflammation and damage caused by the gout attack.

Chronic gout, which is characterized by frequent and recurring gout attacks, may require ongoing management with medication to control uric acid levels and prevent future attacks. With proper treatment, people with chronic gout can take care of their symptoms and limit the number and severity of attacks.

It’s also important to note that gout can cause long-term damage to joints, particularly if left untreated or inadequately treated. In extreme instances, gout may result in permanent joint damage, disability, and a limited quality of life.

To reduce the risk of long-term damage and improve recovery from gout attacks, it’s essential to:

• Stick to a healthy diet low in purines
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Stay hydrated
• Engage in regular physical activity
• Manage stress
• Follow the directions of prescribed medications given by your healthcare provider
• Get regular check-ups and monitoring

By working with our healthcare professionals, you can help manage your gout symptoms and reduce the risk of long-term damage. We are conveniently located at 203 Hospital Dr, Suite 300A, Glen Burnie, MD 21061. For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. We serve patients from Glen Burnie MD, Pasadena MD, Edgewater MD, Jacobsville MD, Ferndale MD, Severn MD, and surrounding areas.