Gout is an arthritic disorder that is characterized by inflammation. When the uric acid levels in the blood rise, a person becomes susceptible to this illness. The acid forms needle-shaped crystals within the joints as a result of which the person suffers from severe pain, reddishness, tenderness, and swelling symptoms. Both men and women are vulnerable to this condition. The various risk factors for gout are inclusive of genetic considerations, dietary intake, i.e., having foods rich in purines, age-related factors, certain medications, underlying medical conditions, obesity, alcohol, and bypass surgeries.
Usually, only one joint is affected and if treatment is not administered in a timely manner, the possibility of other joints getting afflicted remains high. If not treated for long, uric acid crystals start developing around the joints, and kidney stones. Gout also increases the risk of other disorders such as kidney failure, hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.
If you suffer from debilitating pain in the joints, it is advised to go for examination. As part of your diagnosis, the medical experts will extract fluid from the joints. If crystals are detected in the fluid, they will confirm that you are suffering from gout. Consequently, they will recommend the best gout treatments based on your condition.
Some of the best gout treatments are discussed in the following details.
Dietary recommendations
The intake of a nutritious diet is an integral part of gout treatment and listed under the grouping of best gout treatments. Consuming heart-healthy foods are advised for gout patients. Their dietary regime must include whole grains, vegetables, low-fat dairy products, legumes, and nuts.
Particular food groups help to reduce the levels of uric acid in the body. Some of these are mentioned below:
- Plant-based oils such as sunflower oil or canola oil or olive oil
- Fresh fruits
- Skimmed varieties of milk
- Vitamin-C capsules in the range of 500-1000 milligrams on a daily basis
- Plenty of water
Abstinence also forms a part of best gout treatments. The consumption of the following food groups must be avoided.
- Red meats
- Animal organ-based meats
- Shellfish like lobster and shrimp
- Excessive alcohol
- Sugar-filled beverages
Medications
Doctors may prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to alleviate the pain and swelling associated with gout. Some of these include colchicine and corticosteroids. These can be coupled with some other types medications that are effective for lowering the levels of uric acid. You must follow your doctor’s advice on the treatment course and not take the medications without their consultation.
Apple cider vinegar
The ACV remedy is known as the best gout treatments. Apple cider vinegar is acidic and can impart relief from gout-related pain. You can mix it with honey to improve its taste. Moreover, honey is anti-inflammatory and can help in lowering the swelling and tenderness. This solution requires mixing one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water. Also, add a little honey and then stir the glass contents after which the drink should be sipped. Pursue this remedy 2-3 times in a day.
Lemon juice and baking soda
The combination of lemon juice and baking soda is advised for alleviating the gout symptoms because the solution alkalizes the body and flushes the extra uric acid from the blood. It is perceived to be one of the best gout treatments. Lemon juice is rich in vitamin-C, which is antioxidant in nature and can help to improve overall health. For this remedy, combine ½ teaspoon of baking soda and one tablespoon of lemon juice. Allow the mix to sit for a couple of minutes after which it should be added to a glass filled with water. The prepared drink must then be sipped.
Cherries
Gout patients will benefit from eating cherries because they are rich in antioxidants. Additionally, they are loaded with anthocyanins that are anti-inflammatory and can prevent gout episodes. Even your doctor will recommend you cherries to mitigate the pain caused by gout. Gout patients are advised to consume 18-20 sweet or sour cherries per day. Alternatively, they can drink one glass of juice prepared with black cherries on a daily basis.
During the gout recovery period, it is important to practice self-care measures. In this context, you must make efforts to control your weight. This, in turn, is helping to reduce the amount of uric acid in the blood and lower the risk of heart-linked disorders. Following an exercise regime is recognized as a great way to shed the extra weight. You can start with low-impact exercises and then gradually advance to the high-impact activities if you wish.
However, it is necessary to bear in mind that gout recovery may not be immediate. Therefore, you need to practice persistence to get effective and quick results.
