Why the calcium crystals form, and what triggers attacks of the disease, is still unknown. Attacks of pseudogout are similar to those of gout, but generally less painful. They strike men and women equally, usually in the mid-60s, and are rarely seen in people under 30. Attacks usually peak within 12 to 36 hours and last from several days to several weeks. Attacks of pseudogout are not related to diet.
People can have both pseudogout and true gout.
What's more, they may have osteoarthritis, making an accurate diagnose difficult. Treatment for pseudogout is less satisfactory than for true gout. As yet, no drug exists that can remove the calcium crystals. Normally, treatment includes medication for inflammation, rest and exercise. More than 26,000 Canadians have ankylosing spondylitis - a type of arthritis that belongs almost exclusively to men.