Gout attack is one of the most painful situations suffered by humans due to the crystallization of uric acid within joints with the consequent intermittent attacks of arthritis. There is a sudden intense single joint inflammation with severe gout pain. Swelling and redness are usually present in such a condition.
Uric acids levels must be monitored regularly to prevent any painful flare ups, because keeping the levels of this acid low will prevent crystals from forming, which in turn prevents pain and inflammation. Uric acid is a waste product that naturally occurs in the body. It is normally flushed from the body by the kidneys through urine. Uric acid crystals may have accumulated in the joints to form gritty, chalk like nodules called tophi.
Despite the critical role of drugs in the treatment of the acute gout attacks, people should initiate changes in lifestyle and also use diet as a prophylactic tool. Drugs can keep it under control, but people with the condition have other weapons at their disposal, too. Slimming down, eating right, cutting back on alcohol and drinking plenty of water will help lower uric acid levels and decrease the risk of gout attacks.
Though many vegetables are good for the body, those with gout should avoid things like asparagus, mushrooms, lentils, peas, and many dark green varieties of veggies during flare ups. Diet control is the only way to control serum uric acid level, but then this is always insufficient. Diet plans are to be followed in accordance to different bodies and their potentials to lose weight. One diet may not work or suit on everyone. If you have a personal or family history of gout, regular examinations by a podiatric surgeon also will reduce the potential for an attack.
Most people resort to short term local steroids injections. However, this should not become a habit as this practice can lead to possible nerve atrophy or necrosis if injected directly into the nerves. Treatment of acute gout involves the use of non-steroidal inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), colchicine, corticosteroids or corticotropin (adrenocorticotropic hormone). However, studies have revealed that every day use of NSAIDs raise the risk of not only liver damage, but also raise the risk of having a heart attack. There is a need for increase intake of water to offset the diuretic effect of the drugs. Studies have also shown that being overweight or obese increases the risk of suffering from gout and by losing weight that risk can be reduced.
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