When it comes to joint pain, it may be difficult to identify what type of condition you have. Gout and pseudogout are two common conditions that cause extreme joint pain, but they both have distinct causes and symptoms. In this blog post, we will discuss the differences between these two conditions and their various treatments so that you can get an understanding of which one is affecting you or a loved one. We’ll also talk about the different types of tests that can be done to accurately diagnose gout or pseudogout so you can get on track for treatment right away.
What is Gout?
Gout is one of the oldest known forms of arthritis, dating back to Egypt in 2640 BC. While Gout is not as common now as it was then, it is still an important and often painful condition, primarily affecting older adults.
- Gout occurs when a person’s body accumulates too much uric acid which forms crystals that can trigger pain and inflammation around a joint, such as the big toe.
- Left untreated and managed Gout can lead to more severe health problems including kidney stones, scarring of the joints, and even permanent disability.
- Gout requires lifestyle changes and medication to keep symptoms under control, so if you think you may be suffering from Gout it is important to seek medical advice immediately.
What is Pseudogout?
- Pseudogout is a form of arthritis that is caused by the accumulation of calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate (CPPD) in one or more joints. The most common signs of Pseudogout are pain, swelling, stiffness, and warmth in an affected joint. Pseudogout typically affects larger joints such as wrists, elbows, shoulders, and knees, though any joint can be affected.
- Pseudogout often mimics the symptoms of gout but is distinguished from gout by the presence of CPPD crystals rather than uric acid crystals. Diagnosis typically involves examining a sample from the affected joint under a microscope to identify crystals associated with Pseudogout.
- Treatment includes prescription medicines and lifestyle modifications to reduce inflammation and improve the range of motion within joints. Although Pseudogout can cause significant discomfort for those affected by it, many patients experience symptom relief with treatment.
Difference between Gout and Pseudogout
Gout and Pseudogout are two distinct types of inflammatory arthritis. Gout is an inflammatory response to the presence of excessive amounts of uric acid crystals in the joints, while Pseudogout occurs when calcium pyrophosphate crystals build up and create inflammation.
- Gout can be caused by diet and lifestyle factors or genetics, while Pseudogout is often seen in older adults with osteoarthritis or other medical conditions such as hypomagnesemia.
- Gout is typically treated with medications such as NSAIDs, colchicine, and steroids, while Pseudogout requires treatment with NSAIDs, cortisone injections, and sometimes colchicine for severe cases.
Both Gout and Pseudogout can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints that make movement difficult; however, Gout usually affects one joint at a time whereas multiple joints can be affected by Pseudogout.
Conclusion
A gout is a form of arthritis that affects the joints, while pseudogout is a condition that results in the build-up of calcium pyrophosphate crystals in the joints. While both conditions can cause pain and swelling, there are several key differences between gout and pseudogout. Treatment for gout typically involves medications to reduce inflammation, whereas treatment for pseudogout may require surgery to remove the calcium deposits. If you think you may be experiencing symptoms of either condition, it’s important to see your doctor so they can properly diagnose and treat the problem.
