What is Gout?

Uric acid is a waste product usually eliminated by the body. It is filtered by the kidneys and excreted through urine. When the body is not able to eliminate it, excessive accumulation of this substance causes a complication that leads to gout. The excess uric acid crystallizes in the body and gets accumulated in the joints and other organs this can be a very painful condition which mostly affects men over the age of 40.

Although men are more prone to gout formation, it is also found in women after menopause. Some people are more prone to gout formation than others. For instance individuals with a family history of gout, diabetes or existing kidney problems are more likely to suffer from this condition than others.

People with this condition feel that the pain is mostly felt in the big toe and then spreads to other joints. People who are overweight or those with other conditions feel the pain in other joints at the same time. The pain of gout can be very severe and can last for a few days.

Symptoms of Gout

• Excruciating pain in the big toe
• A red color to the affected areas
• Tender, swollen and hot joints

Products that help with Gout

You can try prescription medications or natural products for treating your gout. Prescriptions medications my have certain side effects so it is advisable that you try one of the available natural products first.

Flamasil is one such natural homeopathic product available for the treatment of gout. These medications help reduce the swelling, redness and pain associated with gout. These medications have no major side effects and can be safely taken for a long time.

Treatment for Gout

The treatment medications for gout include relieving the pain as well as removing the excess uric acid from the body. Gout can be very painful so taking over the counter painkillers or prescription drugs for the discomfort becomes necessary. Pain relievers like Ibuprofen or in extreme conditions codeine is also prescribed. In order to remove the build up of uric acid, drugs like Probenecid or Allopurinal, are recommended. The downside of taking prescription drugs is that they are usually associated with side effects.

Along with the medications, the doctor also recommends change in diet and drinking habits and advice patients to avoid alcohol.

Prevention of Gout

People may be prone to gout because of a family history of the condition or due to other medications. There are a few precautions that you can take to minimize the risk of developing this condition.

The first advice that doctors give is to drink at least 8 glasses of water everyday. Also avoiding certain foods helps in prevention of gout. Other precautions include:

• Avoiding alcohol.
  • Avoiding foods like liver, beef, pork, lamb, anchovies, sardines, seafood like scallops, and some legumes that are high in purines. Purines cause high levels of uric acid in the body.

Also eating small meals throughout the day is better than consuming a large meal at one time. Keep your weight in check and maintain a consistent lifestyle consisting of a healthy diet and exercise.

When to see a Doctor for Gout

Gout is a type of arthritis. When you see signs and symptoms like swelling in the joints, redness and pain, it is advisable to seek medical help. The doctor can then decide the severity of the condition and whether you have other kinds of arthritis and then advise treatment for it. It is best to discuss all your symptoms with the doctor including the medications you are taking and your family history.

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