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Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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Acute Gouty Arthritis - Gout
- Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
- Symptoms & Signs
- Diagnosis & Tests
- Prevention & Expectations
- Treatment & Monitoring
- Attribution
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Prevention & Expectations
What can be done to prevent the disease?
Some cases of gout can be prevented by controlling conditions that are strongly associated with gout, such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol.
What are the long-term effects of the disease?
People with gout can live normal lives. But when the disease is active, it can have a significant effect on quality of life. Gout can progress to a chronic state, and it can lead to kidney stones and chronic changes in the affected joints. The chronic stage is more likely to occur when the disease starts before the age of 30. Untreated gout can lead to permanent disability.
What are the risks to others?
Gout is not contagious and poses no risk to others.