How is pseudogout different from gout?
Gout is caused by urate crystals forming in the joints, a result of excess urate in the blood or an underlying kidney disease. Pseudogout is caused by a build up of calcium phosphate crystals. This build up can be due to a variety of factors such as: • Genetics – some cases are hereditary • Nutritional imbalances • Age – the older you are, the more likely you are to suffer from pseudogout. Most sufferers are elderly • Over active thyroid gland If you have taken too much iron supplement, this can cause pseudogout. Likewise, not having enough magnesium in your diet can do the same. Diagnosis: A joint aspiration will be performed. This is where a needle is inserted into the swollen area and fluid drawn off to see if it contains calcium phosphate crystals. Doctors can tell the difference between calcium phosphate crystals and urate crystals if they examine them under a microscope. An X-ray can also determine whether there is any damage to the joints. Treatments: Treatment is similar for ps
