How to Live With Gout

Gout is a form of arthritis affecting one in 100 people, 95 percent of whom are males. When gout attacks it is usually painful and sometimes debilitating. Living with gout requires knowledge about what causes the condition and how to manage it. Read on to learn how to live with gout.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Pen
• Notebook

Learn to Live With Gout Through Health Education

1. Learn which foods trigger an attack of gout. Most people find red meat, alcohol and many types of fish induce a gout attack. Eliminating alcohol and increasing water intake will allow the body to keep uric acid levels low. Alcohol traps uric acid in the kidneys and prevents the body from ridding itself of the uric acid. This then turns into crystals and provokes an attack. Water, however, helps to remove uric acid.
2. Maintain a healthy diet and avoid large reductions in weight at once. Extreme diets that result in losing drastic amounts of weight will actually increase uric acid, causing a gout attack. As it is essential to maintain a healthy weight, gout sufferers should slowly work their way to a healthy weight and then maintain it.
3. Exercise daily to help lower the risk of a gout attack. You do not have to join a gym or buy expensive equipment. Taking a brisk walk for half an hour each day will get the blood pumping and help your entire body.

Monitor Your Progress to Report to Your Physician

4. Use a notebook to write down the date and time of joint pain or a gout attack. A diary is one way to learn how you can live with gout. Keep track of where the pain was, how long it lasted, what (if anything) helped and what foods were eaten the days preceding the attack. By looking back in the diary, you will see where you need changes to help live with gout. You may find that certain foods trigger an attack or find the best method to relieve pain.
5. Find a doctor who has extensive knowledge about gout. Establishing a relationship with a knowledgeable physician who understands your needs is essential in living with any medical condition. Bring your notebook to every appointment to help your doctor provide the best treatment regimen. If your doctor prescribes medication or a new diet regimen, it is important to follow the doctor's instructions exactly to avoid gout attacks.

Tips & Warnings

• Start treating for gout as soon as an attack is felt to avoid a more severe attack.
• Prepare a list of questions and concerns about gout in advance when seeing your doctor. This will make the appointment the most productive and keep you from forgetting an important question.
• Always consult with a board certified physician when you suspect you have gout. Only a doctor can diagnose this condition.