Gout is a common, extreme type of arthritis, resulting from increased levels of uric acid in a patient's blood.
What are the signs and symptoms of gout? Since the toes are the part that is usually affected by gout, sufferers will initially feel a stabbing pain in the big toe accompanied by a tingling sensation in their extremities. At times, redness is noticeable near the area of the affected joint. A high uric acid blood level can cause gout in your joints. Over time, the uric acid builds up as crystals and can affect other parts of the body including the kidney.
Diet plays a large part why most people experience gout. Some foods contain a substance called purines that exacerbate the attack of gout. Foods like red meat contain high levels of purines. These substances are broken down by the body and uric acid is one of the resulting by-products. People should not only reduce the amount of red meat they eat, they should also restrict the intake of friend food and alcohol. Dairy foods like cheese and milk are known to lower the level of purines in the body, and including vegetables in the diet is also beneficial.
Most common gout medication relieves the pain and brings down the inflammation. There are a lot of medications available in the market today, but the primary prescription that doctors will give as gout medication is anti-inflammatory medications to reduce the swelling. Oxaprozin, Diclofenac, Ibuprofen, and Indomethacin and the four most popular NSAIDs taken 3-4 times a day.
Only when the swelling is treated will the doctor give drugs to address the high level of uric acid. As for pain relievers, Colchicine is an effective gout medication although caution must be taken in administering the doses since side effects include nausea, vomiting, and pain in the stomach are unavoidable. In rare cases, the doctor may choose to inject corticosteroids directly into the joint.
Some patients have sought more natural treatments for gout. Foods containing Omega 3 fatty acids are a vital part of your diet. Inflammation is reportedly reduced with the use of the substance. If you are looking to relieve gout pain, look into eating fatty fishes.
Flaxseed and nuts contain high levels of omega 3. Foods high in vitamin-C are wonderful ways to lower uric acid. It can cause a rise in uric acid levels, so taking it in moderation is important. Nearly all berries (as well as cherries) are able to do this equally well.
The only time people think of paying attention to their diet and lifestyle is when they are stricken with gout. It should be noted that prevention is more important than medication for gout, so eating a balanced diet and avoiding unhealthy lifestyle are the keys to help you prevent the onset of gout.