We all heard our grandparents talking about that dreaded GOUT. It's not until you actually experience a gouty attack that you can appreciate the actual pain. People have described the pain as that of having your foot run over by a car, feeling pieces of broken glass in between your joints, even pouring boiling water all over your feet or toes. The pain is unbearable. Furthermore, gouty attacks can cause permanent changes to joints and soft tissue that can lead to chronic pain syndromes.
Now you are probably thinking, please don't let me be the one to get the gouty flare. Well,there is good news for you! There are everyday steps that we can do to prevent gouty attacks. Below are my top 3 tips to help you avoid those painful flare-ups!
1. Diet! Diet! Diet! its all about diet.
A diet rich in purines increases your risk for a gouty attack. By avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, especially beer, limiting the amount of organ meats, sardines, anchovies, and red meats you eat, avoiding sweetened beverages, especially those containing fructose, you can help prevent a flare-up.
2. Take your medication.
Take your prescribed medication to manage your gout. Be sure to regularly see your primary doctor. If your feet, ankles, or toes begin to fell the pain from gout attacks, visit a podiatrist who can help manage your gout.
3. If you are overweight loosing weight can help prevent future flare-ups.
Your weight can effect gout flares. Your kidneys have a harder time flushing themselves, so your uric acid levels will start to rise. The uric acid will begin to eat at the joints and cause gout.
If you think you may have gout do not hesitate to call our office and schedule an appointment!
