The effects of gout can be excruciating. This condition arises when purine, a substance commonly found in every cell, is broken down into uric acid. If the uric acid is not properly excreted, or if it is produced in excessive quantities, it can gather in the joints, where its sharp crystalline structure damages tissues and causes pain. Genetic, dietary and hormonal factors are thought to contribute to cases of gout. Following certain guidelines may decrease the frequency or intensity of episodes of gout.
Treat Acute Flare-ups with Medication
MedlinePlus, a service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine, notes that doctors often respond to patient complaints of sudden gout attack by prescribing non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Ibuprofen, naproxen and indomethacin are some of the NSAIDs that can help in reducing inflammation during acute attacks of gout.
Painkillers such as codeine can ease the throbbing pain that accompanies this condition. Colchicine is a prescription drug that has been shown to reduce both pain and inflammation in cases of gout. Corticosteroids have also been found helpful in this regard. They are sometimes injected directly into the affected joint.
Prescriptions Can Lower Uric Acid Levels
Chronic gout occurs in patients who regularly have uric acid levels above 6 mg per deciliter of blood. Those with recurring or chronic gout may be prescribed medications that can decrease the levels of uric acid that circulate in the blood. Allopurinol and probenicid are two drugs used to treat patients who have numerous episodes of gout annually. Allopurinol works by blocking the production of uric acid, while probenicid increases the excretion of uric acid, according to the New York Times.
Eliminate Excessive Alcohol Use
Alcohol consumption is a known risk factor in causing gout. The condition is known to be more prevalent in those who drink regularly. The Mayo Clinic lists acceptable levels of alcohol consumption as one drink per day for women, or two drinks per day for men. Anything above these levels increases the risk of gout.
Limit High Purine Foods
Certain foods are known to contain high quantities of purines and thus can aggravate a predisposition to gout. FamilyDoctor.org explains that healthy foods as well as fatty foods can contain high levels of purine, and the goal is not to completely eliminate purines from the diet but to limit and monitor purine intake. Organ meats, red meat, meat extracts such as gravy, seafood and yeast products may all be implicated in excess uric acid production leading to gout.
The New York Times adds that some foods, such as low-fat yogurt and skim milk, show promise in protecting against gout.
