Understanding Gout Symptoms And Solutions You Can Really Use

                

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Gout is on the increase, but most people don't realize that it's a form of arthritis. When people are told this they can often get annoyed with the suggestion that they have arthritis, especially if they are on the young side ? Assuming that only more mature people get arthritis.

Proportionally gout effects more men than women, and women who are effected by it, most are post menopausal.

Gout is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body, which leads to a state called hyperuricemia. This condition is not dangerous in itself, however the knock on effects of the excess uric acid can cause health problems.

Uric acid build up can be caused by a number of factors. I can be a hereditary condition whereby the body doesn't process uric acid efficiently, or it could be simply that too much uric acid is being produced.

There are four stages to gout, during the first stage sufferers are unaware that they have gout as it involves the increase of uric acid in the blood without any physical symptoms.

The second stage is when the first gout attack happens. Gout attacks can come on extremely suddenly, even overnight. The effected joint becomes hot, swollen, red and painful. Gout usually strikes at the joints in the foot and ankle, most commonly the big toe. During this stage sufferers can become incapacitated, as often the joint is too painful to walk on.

The third stage is where sufferers have symptom free periods between gout attacks. It is common to have a second gout flare-up within 6 - 24 months of the first attack. It is important to seek treatment during this stage to reduce gout attacks, as the final stage of gout is serious.

The fourth stage is the chronic stage and involves consistently swollen sore joints, with sores developing on the skin over the joints. These can leak whitish pus. Mobility is often impaired too due to stiffness and pain. Most cases of gout do not develop this stage. To avoid any long term problems take a look at the natural solutions that you can implement right now:

Lose Weight
If you are overweight, losing the extra pounds can help to reduce the amount of uric acid produced by the body. Avoid the popular low-carb diets as these encourage a high consumption of protein, which will increase uric acid production.

Keep Hydrated
Drinking at least 6 - 8 eight ounce glasses of water a day will help to dilute the uric acid in the body, allowing the kidneys to process and expel it more easily. Limit your alcohol intake, as alcohol, especially beer, will raise your uric acid levels.

Gout Friendly Diet
Uric acid is produced naturally by the body from the breakdown of purine. Purines are found in a lot of our foods and especially protein. Following a gout-friendly diet involves avoiding foods that are high in purine and swapping these for moderate or low purine foods. Find out what not to eat by signing up to our free newsletter.

Understanding gout symptoms and solutions means that you will know what steps to take to avoid having another gout attack.

By Lisa McDowell. Sign up for a free newsletter & discover more about gout symptoms and solutions. Discover simple lifestyle changes that get rid of gout

Gout Medication Treatments And Their Side Effects

                

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One of the most effective ways of reducing the symptoms of a gout attack is through medication. Medications are necessary not just to relieve the pain of acute attacks but also to prevent attacks from recurring. Some gout medications can also target high levels of uric acid in the blood, a condition referred to as hyperuricemia.

To successfully treat gout, it is better to consult a doctor than try to alleviate symptoms through self-medication. Tests will be performed to determine the level of uric acid in the body which might include a urine test or taking a sample of fluid from the affected joint. Once the presence of gout is determined, only then will the course of therapy or medications should be discussed.

Some of the most common medications used to treat gout are:

NSAIDs and corticosteroids

Probably the most common medications used to treat gout are NSAIDs or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which are taken orally. As their name implies, NSAIDs function to reduce the swelling in the affected joints and reduce pain.

NSAIDs also block the production of a substance called prostaglandin, which is responsible for causing inflammation and the feeling of pain. Initially, NSAIDs are taken in high doses for as long as symptoms last and medication may continue for about three more days after symptoms have subsided.

It is worth noting, however that while NSAIDs are effective in reducing the inflammation in the joints caused by uric acid crystals, they do not decrease the amount of uric acid found in the body. An NSAID will not, by itself, eliminate uric acid.

Corticosteroids may be prescribed if a patient does not respond to an NSAID or if it is not well tolerated. Corticosteroids are also anti-inflammatory medications and can produce immediate relief if injected directly into the joint. The only drawback is that it cannot be used on a regular basis (i.e., for every attack) because it can cause the weakening of cartilage and promote the deterioration of the joints.

In some cases where symptoms cannot be alleviated or controlled by NSAIDs or corticosteroids, a drug called colchicines may be prescribed during the first 12 hours of a gout attack and is usually taken every hour. It does have side effects, though, such as diarrhea, nausea, abdominal cramps and vomiting.

Gout medications such as probenecid and allopurinol may be prescribed to regulate the levels of uric acid in the blood and are often prescribed to older patients. These medications prevent the development of tophi which are chalk-colored lumps found under the skin, usually around joints.

Another medication that has a long history with gout is colchicine. It has been around since the 1800s and can significantly reduce swelling and relieve pain as well as stop future attacks. It has enjoyed a certain staying power because of its effectiveness. However, its use can cause certain side effects such as vomiting, nausea and diarrhea even when used during a short period.

Other than probenecids, colchicines and allopurinol, sulfinpyrazone may also be prescribed for the treatment of tophi and the prevention of further attacks.

Watching the side effects

Gout medications do have their side effects and can range from mild nausea or dizziness to abdominal cramps and headaches. If you do suffer from these, there is no need to grin and bear it just to get relief later. You can talk to your doctor about it and ask for alternatives. By no means should you stop taking your medications without talking to your doctor first.

Supplements and quack medications

Gout sufferers are often advised to take dietary supplements such as Vitamins E, B-complex and folic acid to replenish the body's supply. There are also some very attractive and tempting ads making the rounds in the internet and the papers, promising a 'total cure' or a 'miraculous treatment' for gout.

Before giving in to these ads, it is better to consult with your doctor first. Some of these medications and supplements may not contain harmful ingredients, but they may mix with your current medication and affect your body adversely.

Further research

No cure has yet been discovered for gout, but scientists continue to conduct research on the subject, specifically on the effectiveness of other medications with newer compounds that are safe to use. Studies on the structure of the enzymes involved in breaking down purines inside the body are also being done, to promote further understanding of how these enzymes affect or promote the occurrence of gout.

Lee Dobbins writes for http://gout.topicgiant.com where you can learn more about gout treatment and symptoms

Joint Symptoms Relating to Gout

                

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It you suffer any symptoms of gout in the joints, it is important that you immediately contact your physician. Gout in the joints is a painful condition that should be treated immediately, with an effective method of treatment. It is for this reason that it is necessary to seek medical attention right away. Some people have a major fear or distrust of doctors; however, if you find the right doctor you will find that dealing with your symptoms and condition is much better than suffering.

Finding the right doctor that you trust could mean the difference between pain and relief. Gout is a condition that can cause intense pain in the sufferer and only a doctor can tell you just what you should do to treat the condition. He or she may offer several different methods of treatment, such as a restricted diet. In many people, their diet will be the direct cause of gout. This may mean that your doctor will prescribe not only medication, if at all, but also a diet that you should follow.

While this will mean eliminating some of the foods, you might love particularly foods high in acids, temporarily or permanently, and it may not be enjoyable, it will also mean relief from the symptoms of gout. Improving your health is far more important than eating foods that are not necessary good for you or your body. If your doctor prescribes a specific diet, you will likely have to meet with a nutritionist. A nutritionist specializes in the areas of diets, foods, and of course, nutrition. The nutritionist will explain to you which foods you should be eating and why. He or she will also explain which foods you should avoid and why.

Knowing the foods that can prove beneficial to your overall health, as well as your condition is essential. At the same time, knowing which foods could lead to gout or make the condition worse, is just as important. Ultimately, whatever method of treatment is prescribed by your physician it is important that you follow it closely and precisely, as it can only mean an improvement in your condition.

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Cherry Juice for Gout?

                

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Cherry Juice as an Effective Gout Treatment

The popular fruit cherry now has more to offer other than as a topping in your ice cream. Emerging alternative treatment for gout is now focusing its attention on this ruby sweet to help relieve the painful inflammation of the joints, known as arthritis and gout.

Cherries, in all its varieties, are rich in antioxidants and flavonoids. Antioxidants are nature's most celebrated soldiers against cancer. They fight free radicals that attack cells. Flavonoids, on the other hand, are compounds that, aside from its cancer-fighting abilities, also help relieve inflammation of bodily joints and tissues. Initially, flavonoids were connected mostly to plants and fruits' coloring, but more researches are emerging certifying the health boosting capacity of the said element.

The most important and efficient flavonoid to date that helps treat gout is called anthocyanins. Cherry now tops the choice of gout patients as they are rich in anthocyanins.

What are Anthocyanins?

Anthocyanins are a type of flavonoids naturally found in nature. They provide the pigmentation and color of leaves, flowers, and fruits. They are responsible for the cherry's rich red hue. They are a type flavonoid most common in brightly colored fruits. In the past, they were treated as color providers only. It was in recent researches where their powers as anti-inflammatory agents were being discovered.

As an anti-inflammatory agent, they help reduce many types of pain caused by tissue swelling and damage. Gout is not an exception to its inflammation pacifying capacities. Since gout is brought about by joint distension, any element that can fight the swelling will bring reprieve to the patient.

How do Anthocyanins Work?

A published paper in Michigan State University states that anthocyanins are at least 10 times more effective in cherries than in the most common non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, aspirin. Anthocyanins work by blocking the production of enzymes that stimulate tissue and joint inflammation. It acts much like a neutralizer that impedes tissue swelling when uric acid crystals start attacking the joints. By inhibiting these enzymes that promote inflammation, gout is effectively combated and the pain is greatly reduced. Prostaglandin, the element pinpointed as the source of joint pain, is said to be inhibited by anthocyanins.

Doctors and researchers have also noted that it is the anthocyanins in cherries that reduce uric acid levels in the body, the culprit of gout. Studies as the University of California have shown that eating at least a serving of cherries everyday lowers the uric acid in the body considerably. The said study has also shown that it does not matter if the cherries served are fresh, dried, or juiced. The results were all the same in showing that the reduction in uric acid was apparent. This is a helpful diet information especially if the patient combines sensible eating habits and restricts alcohol consumption.

Anthocyanins work in a three fold manner. First, during inflammation or the gout attack itself, enzymes tear and damage the connective tissues in the joints, making the capillaries burst and the blood to spill over its surrounding tissues. Anthocyanins will then combat these destructive enzymes and prevent further damage. They will block the destructive enzymes from further reproducing start protecting the affected tissues. Next, their antioxidant properties will block the oxidants that were released upon inflammation and tissue damage. Lastly, they restore the lost proteins and bring the tissues back to their original state.

In essence, this natural compound relieves pain and helps patients by combating inflammation and reducing tissue tearing. Finding and using a natural shield against gout is very important to patients because it helps take away the dangers of prolonged drug use.

How Much Cherries do we Need?

Twenty five (25) milligrams of anthocyanins can be obtained by eating twenty cherries. The said quantity is enough to block the damage-inducing enzymes that come with joint inflammation.

Studies have shown that it is best to consume cherries, and benefit from its anti-inflammatory properties, on a regular basis. Eating cherries or drinking cherry juice gout attack will help cut short the symptoms after some time. On the other hand, if these wonder fruits are taken in at a regular basis, it acts not only as a gout attack fighter but also as a powerful prevention tool.

Monica Nelson writes about health topics, about specific ailments such as the gout diet and foods that cause gout and foods that do not, and helpful suggestions about other related topics such as about mobility scooters, etc. These health articles are provided as a helpful news service and are not to be considered medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about health issues such as gout and arthritis.

Gout Treatment

                

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Gout is a condition that is more popular in men than in women. Of all the people suffering from Gout, men make up 95% compared to 5% women. It is a an affliction that seems to attack the big toe first in men, and can be excruciating as the joint is inflamed and the uric acid crystals begin to settle and form large clusters. Gout treatment and management is essential to keep uric acid from debilitating joints permanently.

There are several medications for gout treatment although none of them are a cure. Often the first medication prescribed to the patient is a NSAID, usually Indomethacin. In the beginning the patient is given high dosages, and then gradually less as the uric acid crystals dissolve. Another medication used may be Colchinicine, as it is generally used for severe attacks of arthritis caused by gout, and helps to prevent many more acute attacks. This gout treatment medication may be used in two different ways, as a daily dose, or in some cases as an intense treatment over a few hours. There are also Corticosteroids available for patients unable to take NSAIDs or Cholchicine. This gout treatment is once again given in larger doses, and then gradually less over the next several weeks.

One of the medications that may be prescribed for gout treatment is Allopurinol, which is also known as Zyloprim. This medication is for chronic gout and is actually helpful for the system, by reducing the overall retention of uric acid. This is a prevention tool, and not meant to be used during an acute attack. One of the uricosuric agents that may be prescribed to help reduce uric acid retention is called Probenecid. This gout treatment is meant to prevent, and not necessarily to treat an acute attack. ColBenemid is a combination gout treatment that contains Cholchicine and Probenecid. This medication may not only treat current attacks, but it may also help to prevent future attacks. There are many gout treatments available on the market, so your best bet is to discuss your gout treatment options with your doctor.

There are several lifestyle changes that can be made to implement your own personal gout treatment. Obesity has been viewed as a precursor to gout, so maintaining proper weight is a great preventative for gout. Also, there are known facts that a diet heavy in purine can bring about the symptoms of gout. Reducing your consumption of meats can help you keep gout at bay. Alcohol is also a known irritant for gout sufferers. Discuss your habits with your doctor to find out what you can do to keep from developing this problem. You should also consider always keeping yourself properly hydrated, as proper fluids will help to flush the excess uric acid out of your system.

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Foods that May Induce the Symptoms of Gout

                

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Gout is a type of rheumatoid arthritis caused when purines found in foods that cause gout are broken down by the body into uric acid. This chemical is not harmful itself, and is usually filtered by the kidneys, but consumption of high amounts of foods that cause gout can cause elevated levels of uric acid, a condition called hyperuricemia. When the levels of uric acid in the blood get to be too high, sharp crystals of uric acid can accumulate between joints and cause the inflammation known as gout.

Generally, foods that cause gout are high in fat, and sufferers of gout are recommended to consume less than 30% of their calories from fat. Some foods that cause gout due to their high purine counts are fish, poultry, pork and beef. Other foods that cause gout more frequently are organ meats, such as kidney, heart, and liver, because they contain the highest concentration of purines. Some foods that cause gout do not actually contain meat, but are derivatives of meat, such as broths, fish roe, and bouillon.

In addition, foods that cause gout also include dairy products that are high in fat, such as whole milk, cheese, ice cream, and butter. Soy products can be used as a substitute for dairy products in these cases. Also, some foods that cause gout are vegetables, such as spinach, mushrooms, cauliflower, peas, asparagus, lentils, and beans. Yeast is also a food that causes gout, and by extension beer is also a food that causes gout since it is made from yeast.

Poor kidney function can also be a contributing factor to gout, since the kidneys normally filter out uric acid from the blood stream. In addition to avoiding foods that cause gout, patients should drink plenty of water, and eat foods such as tofu, olive oil, and nuts to help reduce uric acid levels in the bloodstream. Foods rich in complex carbohydrates, such as vegetables, fruits, and whole grains may also ease symptoms of gout. In addition, anti-inflammatory medication combined with a weight loss plan and a diet low in foods that cause gout can alleviate symptoms.

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