Gout: Cause And Treatment

Gout is caused due to deposition of uric acid crystals inside the body which are formed as result of metabolism of purine containing compound or other waste products. Uric acid is eliminated from the body as urine.

Due to malfunctioning of kidney or excess production of uric acid these deposits increase in the body. Before gout is confirmed the body will be in the phase of hyperuricemia (high levels of uric acid).

Gout can affect any joint- ankles, wrist, fingers or foot.

Treatment

Before the treatment can start some major changes in eating habits must be made. Mushrooms, asparagus, meats, cauliflower, spinach, fish, yeast, sardines, peas, mussels, crab and legumes all are high in purine content.

Alcoholic beverages must also be avoided. Those who are overweight must try to reduce weight. This helps in better functioning of the kidneys and hence better elimination from the body.

Drink lots of water and fluids to have healthy liver and kidney. Spring water is said to be beneficial due to its alkaline nature that reduces the acidity of the condition.

Drinking blood purifiers is helpful. Although spinach juice is considered as a blood purifier but it can not be consumed in this disease. So, chose the tonics carefully. Black cheer juice and strawberries are said to be safe and helpful.

Foods rich in phosphorus like bananas help in elimination of uric acid. Juice of French beans is helpful.

Natural remedies must be considered for gout treatment. The painkillers that are prescribed to deal with gout pain have risk of dependency. Regular exercises and massage help dealing with pain. Regular care will reduce attacks but there is no permanent cure for gout.

For inflammation and pain soak the area in warm water that contains Epsom salt. Other remedy is to apply ice cubes on the area for temporary relief.

Prepare a mixture of one cup each of fruit vinegar and water. Add 1 tbsp of pepper to it and apply on the joints for 3 hours. Gently remove with cotton cloth afterwards.

NSAIDs will form first line drugs for the treatment. If these are non-effective then IV options of colchicines is considered.