Chiragra

Chiragra is a form of gout that targets the hands. Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. This condition leads to intense pain, often described as a feeling of burning or stabbing.

Symptoms include sudden, intense pain in the thumb, finger, or wrist joints. The joint may become red, swollen, and warm to the touch. It can be extremely painful, even to the point of being unable to bear the weight of a bedsheet.

Chiragra is caused by hyperuricemia (high uric acid levels in the blood), which can be due to diet (high in purines), genetics, kidney problems, or medications like diuretics.

Treatment includes medications to reduce pain and inflammation (NSAIDs, colchicine, corticosteroids) and long-term medications to lower uric acid levels (allopurinol, febuxostat).

If you experience sudden, severe pain in your hand joints, see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.