Treating Gout

 

Treating gout as soon as it is diagnosed is essential in preventing chronic gout and managing the pain and other symptoms before they get out of control.

After diagnosis, your doctor will more than likely prescribe Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These are used to control inflammation and pain as a result of gout; over–the–counter options for these include ibuprofen and naproxen. Side effects of these drugs risk stomach pain, bleeding, and ulcers.

For those unable to take NSAIDs, doctors can prescribe colchicine, a pain reliever known for cutting gout pain. However, this medication has a catch – it is usually accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Lower dosage can still lessen the pain, but it usually has mild side effects.

 

Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, also can control gout inflammation and pain. This medication can be administered as a pill or through a needle straight into your joint(s). Still, similar to NSAIDs and colchicines, corticosteroids also have side effects, including thinning bones, poor wound healing, and a decreased ability to fight infection. Taking a lower dose for a shorter time can reduce the side effects and control the symptoms, but there is still a risk of side effects.

 

As an alternative to over-the-counter drugs or prescriptions, we recommend Naturasil for Gout. Naturasil for Gout helps to relieve the discomfort and soreness that comes with gout. Naturasil for Gout is a proprietary blend of 100% natural extracts that penetrate the skin, helping to reduce gout symptoms. This is one of the few all-natural options available that works with your immune system to calm your body.

 

In addition to medication, there are lifestyle changes you can make to lower your risk of a gout flare-up.

1. Drink 8-16 cups of fluid daily, with at least half of that fluid being water.
2. Avoid alcohol whenever possible.
3. Eat moderate protein from foods like tofu, eggs, and nut butter.
4. Limit your daily meat, fish, and poultry intake to 4-6 ounces.

 

Avoid the following foods if possible to avoid future flare-ups: 

• Scallops – Full of purines, seafood in general is a must to avoid, especially during a flare-up. When your gout is at bay, scallops and salmon are okay to have once in a while.
• Herring – While scallops and salmon are okay once in a while, herring should be removed entirely from your menu. Tuna and anchovies are also off the list. Lobster, shrimp, eel, and crab are also okay to indulge in every so often, but remember to limit your daily meat intake to 4-6 ounces a day.
• Beer – Not only will beer increase your uric acid levels, but it will also make it more difficult for your body to purge these toxins from your body. Wine is a better choice, but avoiding alcohol is your best option.
• Turkey – Yes, you’ll need to trade your turkey for fish, chicken, or duck next Thanksgiving. Leg meat is the best choice compared to a chicken breast with skin.
• Sugary Drinks – Sodas, ‘fruit’ juices, anything with that fructose corn syrup is a no-no for someone who suffers from gout. Corn syrup stimulates the body to produce more uric acid (not to mention all that sugar will pack on the pounds).
• High-Purine Vegetables – Asparagus, cauliflower, spinach, and mushrooms are higher in purines than other vegetables. Still, you don’t need to avoid them altogether. Just make sure these vegetables are eaten infrequently.

Foods that will help protect you against gout include low-fat dairy foods, complex carbohydrates, coffee, and fruits. Once you get used to the diet, it will be easy to maintain. Gout doesn’t go away, but its symptoms can certainly be managed and reduced.