Gout
"I experienced attacks of gout from my 20&#039;s on - debilitating pain in a foot joint being the most common symptom. I&#039;d have half a dozen attacks of this per year lasting a few days.

I finally went to a doctor in my early 30&#039;s and was put on a daily Allopurinol regime, and I haven&#039;t had an attack since.  I&#039;m currently in my mid 60&#039;s.

Over the past 6 years I&#039;ve significantly altered my lifestyle, dropped 60 lbs, exercise far more often, and no longer eat meat, so I&#039;m considering asking my doctor if I should try going off the medication.  But overall, it has been a blessing to me."