Drug-induced chronic gout, left knee Save
ICD-10 code: M1A.262
Chapter: Diseases of the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue
Understanding Drug-Induced Chronic Gout in the Left Knee
Gout is a type of arthritis that causes sudden and severe joint pain, inflammation, and swelling. It typically affects the big toe, but it can also occur in other joints, including the knee. Chronic gout is a long-term condition that can cause permanent damage to the affected joint.
Drug-induced chronic gout occurs when certain medications interfere with the body's ability to eliminate uric acid. Uric acid is a waste product that is normally excreted through the kidneys. When uric acid builds up in the body, it can form sharp crystals that accumulate in the joints, causing gout symptoms.
Some medications that can cause drug-induced chronic gout include diuretics, which are commonly used to treat high blood pressure and edema; aspirin, which can interfere with uric acid excretion; and niacin, which is sometimes used to manage high cholesterol. Chemotherapy drugs can also cause gout symptoms.
If you have drug-induced chronic gout in your left knee, your doctor may recommend nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Colchicine, a medication that can reduce the severity of gout attacks, may also be prescribed. Your doctor may also recommend lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, reducing alcohol consumption, and avoiding foods that are high in purines, which can increase uric acid levels in the body.
- Take your medications as prescribed by your doctor.
- Avoid foods that are high in purines, such as red meat, shellfish, and organ meats.
- Drink plenty of water to help flush uric acid from your body.
- Avoid alcohol, which can increase uric acid levels in the body.
- Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on your knee joints.
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove tophi, which are deposits of uric acid crystals that can form under the skin. Joint replacement surgery may also be necessary if the knee joint is severely damaged.
If you are experiencing symptoms of gout in your left knee, it is important to seek medical attention. Early treatment can help prevent long-term damage to your joints and improve your quality of life.