Understanding Gout and What Triggers Painful Flare-Ups
Gout is an increasingly common form of arthritis caused by excess uric acid buildup in the bloodstream. When levels get too high, uric acid crystals can form in the joints and cause extreme pain and swelling known as a gout attack or flare-up. While gout is manageable with proper treatment, flare-ups can interrupt daily activities and quality of life.
Who Gets Gout?
Certain factors can increase your risk of developing gout disease:
- Obesity
- Genetics and family history
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Poor kidney function
- Diet high in meat, seafood, fructose, and alcohol
What Triggers a Painful Flare-Up?
Flare-ups occur when excess uric acid forms crystals and settles in the joints. Attacks can happen unexpectedly or be triggered by:
- Injuries, overuse, or trauma to a joint
- Dehydration
- Alcohol or high purine foods
- Medications like diuretics
- Surgery or abrupt stopping of ULT meds
- Illness, stress, or major life change
Getting Through a Gout Flare-Up
Going through a gout flare is extremely painful. Without proper management, an attack can last up to 10 days. Here are some proven techniques to find relief fast.
See Your Doctor
Don't wait - get an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan. Gout symptoms come on suddenly like other forms of arthritis.
Your doctor can drain fluid from the affected joint and prescribe NSAIDs, steroids, or colchicine to ease swelling and pain fast. They'll also test your uric acid levels and advise on ULTs if needed.
Apply Cold Therapy
Using cold packs can make a dramatic difference in pain. Wrap an ice pack in a towel and hold it over the swollen joint for up to 20 minutes at a time. Repeat as needed for the first 48 hours.
Keep the Joint Elevated
Prop up the inflamed joint above heart level whenever possible to relieve throbbing. Try propping your leg up on some pillows in bed or sitting with your foot on an ottoman.
Stay Well Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water dilutes uric acid concentration in the blood and makes it less likely to crystallize. Herbal tea, bone broth, and electrolyte drinks can also keep you well hydrated.
Move Slowly and Carefully
Get plenty of rest until the flare has fully resolved. Avoid exercise and activities that put pressure on affected joints. Slow, gentle stretches might provide some relief.
Preventing Painful Gout Attacks
Making healthy lifestyle changes can dramatically cut down on the frequency and severity of gout flare episodes.
Maintain a Healthy Body Weight
Carrying excess weight is linked to higher risk of gout and recurrent attacks. Losing even a few pounds can quickly lower uric acid levels.
Limit Alcohol Intake
Consuming beer and liquor regularly is associated with episodes of painful gout arthritis. Stopping alcohol entirely provides the best odds.
Drink Plenty of Fluids
Staying well hydrated dilutes uric acid concentration and supports kidney function - extremely helpful for keeping gout attacks at bay.
Eat a Gout-Friendly Diet
Limit meats, seafood, and high fructose foods. Eat more plant-based foods rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to ease inflammation.
Tart cherries, berries, bell peppers, and greens like kale and broccoli are especially gout-friendly.
Consider Urate-Lowering Therapy
If you have elevated uric acid and recurrent gout episodes, ULT medications like Allopurinol promote excretion of excess urate from your body.
With lower urate levels, painful crystals won't form as readily in your joints.
The Outlook for Beating Gout Pain
Implementing gout management under a doctors care can successfully eliminate or minimize painful gout attacks. Lifestyle measures also provide safe, sustainable relief over the long term.
While dealing with frequent gout flares can be discouraging, most patients find an effective path forward. With consistent prevention efforts, many report being flare-free for months or years.
FAQs
What foods should I avoid during a gout flare up?
Avoid alcohol, shellfish, red meat, high-fat dairy, sugary drinks and foods, and processed meats during a flare up. Stick to whole grains, vegetables, fruits, plant proteins, reduced fat dairy, eggs, and nuts and seeds instead.
Is apple cider vinegar effective for gout?
Some research indicates apple cider vinegar may help lower blood uric acid levels. Mix 2 tablespoons with water and drink up to twice daily. But check with your doctor first as it can interact with certain medications.
Can I still exercise if I have gout?
Low impact exercise like walking, swimming or cycling is great for weight loss and lowering uric acid. But avoid exercise during acute flare ups which can worsen inflammation. Rest until the gout attack fully resolves.
How much water should you drink for gout?
Aim for at least eight 8-ounce glasses of fluids daily, including water, herbal tea, and broth. Staying well hydrated helps dilute uric acid concentration in the blood and prevents painful crystals forming.
Will losing weight help my gout?
Yes! Shedding excess pounds reduces uric acid levels and inflammation rapidly. A 5-10% drop in body weight can dramatically lower your risk of recurrent gout attacks.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
Add Comment