Chronic Gout Treatment

Chronic gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in your blood, which causes the formation of urate crystals around your joints. The condition is known for causing intense, sudden pain in your joints usually followed by redness and tenderness around the area as well, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Foods to Avoid

• Foods that contain purines, also known as organic compounds, can increase the frequency of gout flare-ups. By eliminating these foods from your diet, you can reduce the severity of gout. These foods include mushroom, asparagus, cauliflower and green peas. Organ meats such as liver and kidneys should be avoided, as well as some fish which include sardines and anchovies.

Foods to Include

• A diet high in complex carbohydrates helps prevent gout flare-ups and help reduce inflammation, according to "The Everything Health Guide to Arthritis." Fruits, vegetables and whole-grain foods are high in complex carbohydrates. Low-fat dairy products, carbonated drinks and tofu are also healthy and are low in purines.

Water

• Drink plenty of water to dilute uric acid in your body, which flushes it through your kidneys.

NSAIDS

• Take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce inflammation and pain. Contact your doctor to determine appropriate dosage.

Corticosteroids

• Corticosteroids can be prescribed to your by pill or injected into your joints by your doctor, according to the Mayo Clinic. This treatment controls pain and inflammation, but can cause bone thinning and a weakened immune system.