Scientists don't know what causes RA but think it has something to do with a breakdown in the immune system, the body's defense against disease. Gout occurs most often in older men. It affects the toes, ankles, elbows, wrists, and hands. An acute attack of gout is very painful. Swelling may cause the skin to pull tightly around the joint and make the area red or purple and very tender.
Medicines can stop gout attacks, as well as prevent further attacks and damage to the joints.
Treatments Treatments for arthritis work to reduce pain and swelling, keep joints moving safely, and avoid further damage to joints. Treatments include medicines, special exercise, use of heat or cold, weight control, and surgery. Medicines help relieve pain and reduce swelling. Patients with OA who don't respond to ACT and patients with RA and gout are most commonly treated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen. People taking medicine for any form of arthritis should limit the amount of alcohol they drink.