Home Remedies for Gout

Arthritis is a cluster of diseases affecting discs and bones in the human body which may oftentimes lead to disability if left untreated. Common forms of arthritis include rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia and gout. Gout accounts for about five percent of all cases of arthritis. This condition is more common in individuals who are in their 40’s and 50’s. It is found to be nine times more common in males than in females. Gout attacks are the result of deposits and build up of crystals which formed as a result of abnormally high levels of uric acid circulating in the blood. The accumulation of these sodium urate crystals is not the reason for the occurrence of the signs and symptoms of gout. Gout attacks produce pain as a result of the irritation of these crystals when these accumulate around joint areas. 

Diagnosing this condition can be achieved by a thorough assessment of signs and symptoms and medical history. Blood tests are also beneficial when identifying the uric acid levels in the blood which is the underlying cause of this condition. The increase in uric acid levels in the blood are usually the result of the body’s fault in terms of metabolizing these waste materials or the body’s excessive production of uric acid. There are also certain health conditions which may increase uric acid levels in the body. Examples of these include diabetes mellitus and malignancy such as in cancer. 

Gout attacks are usually characterized by local pain and stiffness. The affected area may appear swollen and reddish as a result of an inflammatory process. The pain is often described as gnawing and worse when waking up early in the morning, during and after every activity. The pain and discomfort brought about by this condition may vary from mild to very severe that even the mere contact of a blanket to the affected area produces excruciating pain. It is necessary for the individual experiencing this condition to manage gout attacks to prevent this condition from occurring again. Studies show that people with gout will more likely experience the attack from time to time especially if symptoms are left unmanaged. 

There are several home remedies which can be done during gout attacks. When the first sign of pain and discomfort is noticed, it is necessary for the person to immediately stop the activity which is believed to trigger the gout attack. Immobilizing the affected area through the use of splints or straps is also necessary to keep the area from moving, thus making room for healing process to take place. Applying an ice pack or cold compress directly over the area reduces the inflammation. Once the swelling has subsided, it is necessary to perform physical activities in order to keep the affected joints mobile. Range-of-motion exercises are recommended to allow movement of the affected areas. Warm up and cooling down exercises is also beneficial in preventing recurrence of gout attacks. 

Since gout causes include diet and having a sedentary lifestyle, people with this condition can greatly benefit from modifying their lifestyle. With this, the individual is recommended to have a healthy balanced diet packed with essential nutrients, as well as vitamins and minerals. Since gout attacks occur due to high levels of uric acid in the blood, it is necessary to avoid foods that contain excessive amounts of uric acid such as seafood, organ meats and certain vegetables like legumes and spinach. Rehydration is also the key to prevent the recurrence of gout attacks. Experts suggest to consume at least eight six-ounce of fluid preferably water, daily. With these strategies, having another gout attack can be prevented.