Gout Remedies

Gout is among the most widely known afflictions of arthritis and rheumatic disease, together with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus. In this condition, needle-shaped uric acid crystals accumulate and build up in the joints, due to a fault in the body’s ability to metabolize, or process, purines. Purines are chemicals that can be found naturally in certain foods, such as organ meats like liver and kidney, and anchovies. Gout primarily affects men over 35 years of age who live sedentary lifestyle and are overweight.

The classic symptoms of gout include pain in the affected joint, swelling, tenderness, burning and warm sensation over the area. The pain associated with an acute gout attack involves feeling of pressure and tightening over the area, and gnawing pain. Sometimes these symptoms are accompanied by fever and chills. Common areas that are usually affected are the big toe, joints on the hands and feet, as well as the knees, shoulders, and elbows. Gout usually appears suddenly, produces severe pain, and would lasts for several days or weeks if left untreated.

It is important to seek medical help immediately after suspecting the presence of this condition. The physician may prescribe medications to help alleviate the pain and discomfort. However, there are also several gout remedies which can be done at home to manage gout attacks. It is necessary to avoid putting any weight on the joint. This can be achieved by not applying any pressure on the joint as this will increase the pain and possible damage the area further. Gout is a serious condition because it can sometimes lead to a lot of major joint damage and destruction.

To help reduce pain and swelling, it is vital to elevate the affected area. This will keep the blood from rushing directly to the area which can cause additional inflammation. Immobilizing the joint should also be done during an acute gout attack. This can be best achieved by applying splints and straps around the area to prevent it from moving. Over-the-counter pain medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can help reduce the inflammatory process leading to pain relief and less swelling on the affected area.

Preventing attacks of gout is important especially for those who are prone to experiencing this condition such as those who are above 35 years old, overweight, smokes heavily, consume large amount of alcohol, have high uric acid levels in their circulation, and have relatives who are also suffering from gout attacks. Several ways to prevent an acute attack include maintaining desirable weight, not eating any foods that are rich in purines such as organ meats, smoking cessation, abstaining from alcohol beverages, drinking at least eight glasses of water a day, wearing comfortable footwear and having a healthy balanced diet.