Gout treatment
Although the name might sound familiar to you, most people probably don’t really know much about gout. The term sounds kind of odd and scary, but really it is nothing more than a form of arthritis. The difference is that while gout affects bones and joints similarly, it is a result of something completely different. If you’ve ever had gout, then you know how painful it can be. Even having something as little as a toe infected with gout can cause extreme discomfort and prevent walking. This is why it is important to learn about gout prevention and treatment, even if you don’t believe you are at risk. I’ve seen it hit people by surprise on many occasions, so it is better to be prepared then not.
Gout is caused by a buildup of uric acid in the blood. Normally, uric acid is filtered by the kidneys, but in the case where a diet is strong with foods that produce uric acid, it can become a task too difficult for the kidneys alone. Some of the foods that can cause this are meats and alcohol. Red meat is especially bad for this, which is why you’ll notice that many gout sufferers are also voracious red meat eaters. Lack of proper hydration can also cause problems, so it is important to make sure that you drink plenty of water.
One of the best forms of gout treatment and gout prevention is exercise, which helps the body to purify itself of toxins, such as uric acid. Maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle is a great way to stay gout and arthritis free. Even if you don’t exercise, it is never too late to start. Once you find medications to eliminate the initial outbreak, you should begin an exercise program to prevent another occurrence.
Some possible medical treatments for gout are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), corticosteroids, colchicine (reduces uric acid buildup in the body), allopurinol (reduces production of uric acid), and a few other classes of drugs that spot treat gout when it occurs. Depending on the severity of your gout and the number of occurrences, your doctor might prescribe something more proactive until you get your diet and exercise pattern straight. However, you should keep in mind that staying on medications permanently can cause additional problems. Side effects are never a good thing, especially if you have to deal with them for life.
For the most part, gout seems to come and go. It generally lasts for a few days or weeks and then goes away. When this happens, people mistakenly believe that they are healed, only to suffer from another occurrence weeks or months later. They get worse over time, so you are better off seeing a doctor as soon as you can. Even if you are currently without symptoms, talk to your doctor about getting medication in the event of another outbreak.
Gout is extremely painful and anyone that has suffered from it will tell you that it feels like glass shards inside of their body. It can sideline you for days if you are not careful, so try your best to be prepared. Stay healthy, get plenty of healthy food and water, and exercise whenever possible. You’ll be amazed by how simple lifestyle changes can help your overall health. As always, if you have any questions about a medical condition or gout treatment, you need to ask a health professional or doctor. Keep plenty of NSAID’s on hand, and be ready when the outbreaks come. If you keep working on the healing, you can be cured over time.
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