About this topic
Gout happens when there is a buildup of uric acid crystals in your body. Uric acid comes from a breakdown of purines in your bodys tissues. When uric acid builds up, it can form needle-like crystals in your joints. The crystals cause swelling in the joint. With gout, you may have a sudden severe pain, tenderness, and redness in your joint. You may also have stiffness and swelling of your joints. These signs often happen in the big toe. Gout is the most common type of joint problem in men, but it can also happen in women. ‚
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What will the results be?
These lifestyle changes can help you avoid a gout attack. They may help to ease pain and swelling during an attack. You may avoid more damage to your joints. ‚
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Help lower uric acid levels
- Help with pain and swelling
- Prevent gout attacks
Your doctor may also change some of the drugs you are taking. Certain drugs may increase your uric acid levels and this makes gout worse. ‚
Will physical activity be limited?
You may have to limit your activity for a while because of pain. Regular exercise can help lower pain and improve your bodys function. Talk to your doctor about the right amount of activity for you. ‚
What changes to diet are needed?
- Obesity is a risk factor for gout, so keep a healthy body weight. Lose weight slowly if you are overweight, as a rapid weight loss can cause a gout attack.
- Keep hydrated by drinking 6 to 8 cups of fluid each day. This may help flush out the uric acid from your body. Avoid sweet and sugary sodas.
What foods are good to eat?
It is important to eat a healthy diet. Your doctor may talk with you about a low-purine diet. These are good foods to eat: ‚
- Low-fat dairy products
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Nuts
- Whole grains
What foods should be limited or avoided?
Do not eat foods that are high in purine. Avoid these foods: ‚
- Red meats like steak and hamburger
- Organ meats like kidney or liver
- Seafood and shellfish like shrimp, lobsters, mackerel, sardines, or scallops
- Beer, wine, and mixed drinks (alcohol)
- Dried beans and peas
- Gravy
Avoid high-fructose foods such as: ‚
- Sweetened drinks and juices
- Foods with added fructose corn syrup like sodas, enriched fruit drinks, cereals, ice creams, and candy
Will there be any other care needed?
Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits. ‚
What problems could happen?
- If the uric acid crystals form in the kidney, you can get kidney stones and problems.
- Long-lasting joint problems
- Ongoing severe pain
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
Lose weight slowly if you are overweight. ‚
When do I need to call the doctor?
- You are not feeling better in 2 to 3 days or you are feeling worse
- If you have any questions or concerns about your condition
Where can I learn more?
Arthritis Foundation ‚
http://www.arthritis.org/goutliving-goutmanagement.php ‚
Gout and Uric Acid Education Society ‚
http://gouteducation.org/patient/living-with-gout/self-care-strategies/ ‚
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases ‚
http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Gout/default.asp ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚