Subjective sensation of heaviness in gout patients.

The main objective of the treatment of gout is to protect the major organs. Almost all gout patients require medication throughout their lives. Gout patients are asymptomatic during intercritical periods, even if they are not receiving antihyperuricemic drugs. Some patients, therefore, misinterpret that their gout is cured and may cease taking medication of their own accord. Thirty-two gout patients who had received continuous treatment with antihyperuricemic drugs for more than 3 months were selected. The sensation of heaviness was relieved by antihyperuricemic drugs in 14 (44%) of 32 patients. The heaviness did not exist or change in the other patients. Benzbromarone, probenecid, and allopurinol were found to be effective. The sensation of heaviness occurred after increased physical activity in 10 of 14 patients. Of 14 patients, 12 did not notice that the sensation of heaviness was relieved by antihyperuricemic drugs. Two hypotheses for the cause of heaviness are considered. One is mild gouty neuropathy, the other low-grade inflammation. A proper understanding that this symptom is relieved by antihyperuricemic drugs may serve as additional motivation for gout patients to take their medication regularly.