Gout causes intense pain and swelling around one or more joints. Gout most commonly affects the joint at the base of the big toe. The signs and symptoms of gout almost always occur suddenly, and often at night. In this blog post, we explore gout and gout prevention.
What is gout and how do I prevent it?
What are the symptoms of gout?
The joint will feel hot and very tender, to the point of being unable to bear anything touching it. Swelling in and around the affected joint which may be red, shiny skin, peeling, itchy and flaky skin as the swelling goes down.
What are the main causes of gout?
Gout is caused by a condition known as hyperuricemia, where there is too much uric acid in the body. The body makes uric acid when it breaks down purines, which are found in your body and the foods you eat.
Should you walk with gout?
It is safe for people to walk with gout. In fact, doing joint-friendly activities such as walking can help improve gout-related pain.
What should you not do if you have gout?
Avoid alcohol during gout attacks, and limit alcohol, especially beer, between attacks. Sugary foods and beverages. Limit or avoid sugar-sweetened foods such as sweetened cereals, bakery goods and candies. Limit consumption of naturally sweet fruit juices.
How long does gout take to heal?
An acute gout attack will generally reach its peak 12-24 hours after onset, and then will slowly begin to resolve even without treatment. Full recovery from a gout attack (without treatment) takes approximately 7-14 days
What are the treatment options for gout?
Medications to treat gout work in one of two ways: they relieve pain and bring down inflammation, or they prevent future gout attacks by lowering uric acid levels.
Drugs to relieve gout pain include:
Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen. However, speak to the pharmacist or your GP prior to taking these medications.
Gout Prevention
Here are a few steps you can take to help prevent gout:
- Limit how much alcohol you drink
- Limit how much purine-rich foods, such as shellfish, lamb, beef, port and organ meat you eat
- Eat a low-fat, non-dairy diet that’s rich in vegetables.
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Avoid smoking
- Exercise regularly
- Stay hydrated
If you have any concerns with your feet then contact our award-winning footcare clinics in Beeston, Nottinghamshire and Ilkeston, Derbyshire. Alternatively, you can book an appointment at our clinics online.