Gout - Causes, Treatment, Importance Of Diet And Medication

Gout is a condition that is related to arthritis. With gout, uric acid builds up in the blood and collects around a specific joint. Typically, this condition strikes the big toe, but can also appear in the ankle, knee, or on the hands and fingers. Sometimes called the "disease of kings”, gout has a reputation for being caused by overindulgence in rich, fatty foods, chemically-laden meat and fish, copious drinking and relative activities. It is unknown why some people are prone to developing gout, while others are not, although one theory is that genetics play a role.

Symptoms Of Gout

Gout often occurs suddenly and is quite painful. When this happens, inflammation will occur around a joint, causing it to appear red and swollen. Often those suffering from gout will describe it as causing a throbbing pain, gout may also cause a mild to high fever. The amount of time that grout lasts varies case by case, it can range anywhere from a single day to several weeks. Unfortunately, if gout is left untreated it can lead to debilitating pain and discomfort for the patient. Consider treating gout with uric acid cleanse. It is for this reason that if you think that you might have gout, that you should have it checked by your doctor as soon as possible. Beginning treatment as early as possible will reduce the amount of pain one has to experience.

Treatments For Gout

When it comes to treating gout, there are a number of potential medications that some doctors will prescribe. However, most healthcare professionals will recommend a change of diet - regardless of if they also prescribe medication. In order to alleviate the pain, most patients are able to use ibuprofen or another over the counter anti-inflammatory. Prior to doing so, however, it is best to visit the doctor to ensure that you are following the most appropriate treatment for your health history. In some, more extreme cases, some patients require a long-term treatment, this might include multiple visits to your doctor, tests and a variety of medications.

Foods Connected To Gout Flare-Ups

Meat and seafood, as a rule, are high in proteins that the body breaks down into uric acid. Excessive amounts of these foods increase the amount of uric acid in the body and can cause an increase of gout symptoms. Reduce the amount of meat, wheat and seafood consumed, specifically liver, kidneys, and sweetbreads. Instead, choose white meats over red meats as a rule. When thinking poultry, consider eating chicken or duck more than turkey, and stick with the drumsticks and thighs rather than the breast with the skin.

Gout And Alcohol

The consumption of excessive amounts of alcohol is one of the primary factors that is known for greatly increasing the chances of developing gout. Consuming too much alcohol is also known for causing the exacerbation of gout symptoms. Now, not all alcohol is bad, and when consumed in moderation you are not putting yourself at high risk of developing gout. However, there are a few things that are important to keep in mind, 1) if you must have a drink choose wine instead of beer, and 2) limit consumption to perhaps one glass instead of several.

Foods That Will Help Avoid And Clear Up Gout

Entérate Ahora

Consider readingAnti-Inflammatory Diet & Action Plans. Eating vegetables is a great way to clear out some of the uric acids in the body. So filling up on greens and lots of healthy vegetables is a good way to get the gout symptoms to go away. Eat them steamed, baked, broiled, or grilled. Boiling may make it easier for the body to break down the fibers in many plants but it’s not necessary to boil vegetables to the texture of baby food. Al dente is the perfect way to serve your vegetables to get the most nutrition, flavor, and texture. Some vegetables are high in purine (the acid that breaks down into uric acid). During a flare-up stay away from asparagus, mushrooms, cauliflower, and spinach. Otherwise, enjoy – just not every day.

The Role of Dehydration

Health Magazine

While there are a number of reasons that can lead to a gout flare up, two big reasons are dehydration and the way that our bodies change as we get older. When it comes to dehydration, many people think that they are doing well because they drink juices or soft drinks. However, the reality is that as tasty as one might think these drinks are they only end up dehydrating them more. Carry a water bottle, drink up and refill often. Doctors recommend drinking eight cups of water a day.

The Impact Of Our Changing Bodies

NetDoctor

Women who suffer from gout typically experience it most often during menopause. This is because of the changes that are going on throughout their bodies in terms of their hormonal balance. This can be incredibly frustrating, however, often when gout strikes during this time of life it is not based greatly on lifestyle or consuming the wrong foods. Nor, does it tend to stick around for a long time. It is important to note, that often one's genetics play a large role in whether or not you will be diagnosed with gout. Some doctors claim that a person’s family history of gout may increase their risk for developing it.

Gout And Lifestyle

Medic House

Gout can also be exacerbated by being overweight, could be brought on by an injury to the foot or hand, or even by frequently wearing uncomfortable shoes. Work toward achieving a healthy body weight and do it as safely as you can, losing no more than 3 lbs per week. Do not be tempted by fasting as this can also trigger gout flare-ups. Choose shoes that fit properly and that have a lower heel, and bring those toe-pinching shoes to the shoe repair to have them stretched.

Blood Pressure And Other Medications

Fox News

Diuretics are often used to reduce blood pressure and are a common prescription for many. Unfortunately, diuretics are also known for being able to potentially bring on gout. These products help the body flush out the system on a more regular basis, which leads to more frequent trips to the bathroom. However, with the increase of water leaving the body through urine, dehydration can occur and increase the levels of uric acid in the body. Consult a doctor for best options.

What To Do When Gout Strikes:

When gout strikes, there are a few things that can be done immediately in order to reduce both the strength of the pain, as well as the duration of it. While number one of on your list ought to be to get in to see a doctor, depending on your situation, you might have to wait a day or two. In the meantime, try taking an anti-inflammatory to reduce the pain, redness, and swelling. Also, elevate the foot, and do your best to try to make some changes to your diet to help reduce the buildup of uric acid.