Recommended Treatment for Gout
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Nonprescription Drugs
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According to the Mayo Clinic, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen may relieve the pain and inflammation of gout. These medications increase a patient's risk of developing stomach pain or ulcers.
Prescription Drugs
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Patients may be prescribed stronger NSAIDs for chronic gout cases. People who cannot tolerate NSAIDs may be prescribed colchicines or steroids.
Alternative Medicine
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Vitamin C, cherries and other alternative treatments may reduce the risk of gout. Alternative gout treatments should be discussed with a doctor.
Lifestyle
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Gout pain may be more effectively controlled if patients avoid alcohol, drink plenty of liquids and reduce their consumption of animal protein.
Cause
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Gout is caused by the accumulation of urate crystals around a joint. Urate crystal formation is caused by high levels of uric acid in the blood.
Risk Factors
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Patients with high blood pressure, diabetes and narrowing of the arteries have a higher risk of developing gout. Gout risk is greater among men, postmenopausal women and users of low-dose aspirin.
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