Patient/caregiver was educated on findings to watch for and report by individuals with Gout as follows:
Tophi formation:
- Excess uric acid can get deposited as needle-shaped crystals, called tophi, in various joints, body parts like kidneys and heart valves, and soft tissues of the body, such as, under the skin.
- These crystals contribute to progressive inflammation and damage at the deposited sites, worsening the outcome further for individuals with gout.
- Progressive growth of tophi deposited under the skin can result in erosion of skin surface, leading to development of skin ulcers.
- Continuing inflammation at these sites can make the ulcers hard to heal. Report to your physician regarding any continued formation of tophi and skin breakdown with ulcer formation.
Declining strength and stability of the joint:
- Support structures in and around the joints, such as, ligaments and tendons, contribute significantly to the strength and stability of the joint.
- Chronic unresolved inflammatory activity in the joint can weaken & damage the support structures leading to poor stability of the joint and increased risk for falls & accidents.
- Report to your physician regarding any declining strength and stability of the joint. Also, report any episodes of falls and accidents.
Nerve damage:
- Tophi deposition and inflamed joints can exert pressure on the nerves running close to the joint involved, leading to neuropathy.
- Individuals can present with signs and symptoms of neuropathy, such as, nerve pain, altered sensation, tingling& numbness along the area of distribution of the involved nerve, sharp radiating burning pain along the distribution of the nerve, and weakness of muscles supplied by the involved nerve.
- Report to your physician regarding any new or worsening symptoms of neuropathy for any appropriate relief measures to be considered.
