what causes gout

Mar 092010

Gout is an agonizing form of arthritis. It occurs due to the purines in the uric acid that form around the joints. Those suffering from gout experience heat, swelling, tremendous pain and joint stiffness. Consuming excess purine containing foods like organ meats, dried beans, sardines and anchovies can cause gout.

One popular solution for the symptoms of gout is to eat fifteen to twenty cherries a day. Fresh cherries are best, but canned cherries work too. Cherries have an enzyme that neutralizes uric acid and are high in anthocyanins, which have high antioxidant properties as well as anti-inflammatory action. For the best results, drink plenty of water while eating the cherries. The water will keep your urine diluted, which will help your body excrete uric acid and prevent crystals from forming.

Alternative treatments of an acute attack of gout may involve bed rest, immobilization of the affected part and local application of heat or cold. Management of gout also may involve attempts to control the rate of uric acid formation by having the individual follow a low purine diet. Such a diet excludes sweetbreads, liver, kidney, poultry, fish, alcohol, rich pastries, and fried foods. To promote uric acid clearance by the kidneys, individuals with gout will usually be encouraged to drink fluids frequently.

As another effective treatment for gout, your doctor may suggest that you take anti-inflammatory, non-steroidal medicines. These medicines should be takes as soon as the symptoms start to relieve inflammation and pain. Occasionally, as another treatment for gout, strong painkillers may be prescribed. Corticosteroids could also be another effective treatment for gout. Your doctor may inject corticosteroids into your joints to ease the pain.

Most doctors will use prescription medicines as the treatment for gout. A medicine called colchicine will help reduce inflammation, swelling and pain caused by sudden gout attacks. The medicine works by decreasing the uric acid crystals built up in the joint. However, the medicine does not reduce the levels of uric acid in the blood stream. Most often the pain usually goes away in about twelve hours of starting the treatment for gout, and is completely relieved by 48 hours. Taking the medicines colchicine, or allopurinol, usually prevents future attacks.

Chinese physicians have used mulberries to treat gout for centuries. The bioflavonoids in mulberries help remove uric acid from the blood stream and reduce the production of Urate crystals. One excellent supplement to help lower the impact of purine rich foods is Goutezol. The ingredients in Goutezol boost a persons immune system as well. Not only does this mulberry derived supplement defend against gout by blocking the absorption of purine, it lowers your risk of catching other illnesses as well.

Want to find out more about How to Find Specific Gout Information, then visit our site and learn more about How to Manage Gout Pain During the Holiday Season.