How to Prevent Gout Pain

Gout is a form of arthritis that happens when too much uric acid builds up in the body. Gout affects the big toe most often, but it also effects joints in the knees, wrists, elbows, fingers, and ankles. It also affects the heels and instep of the feet. Symptoms of gout include pain in the joints caused by uric acid crystals, lumps of uric acid under the skin, and kidney stones. Gout is a very painful condition that requires frequent medical attention and constant dedication to treatment.

Things You'll Need

• Healthy diet
• Exercise
• Regular medical checkups
• Medications

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Instructions

• 1

  Eat a diet low in foods containing purines, which are chemical compounds that break down into uric acid. All meat consumption should be reduced when following a diet to prevent gout pain, but especially avoid liver, beef, pork, bacon, and game meats. Certain seafood--such as herring, sardines, and mackerel--should be avoided also, along with gravy. Other foods to avoid include oatmeal, spinach, asparagus, cauliflower, mushrooms, and peas.

• 2

  Avoid alcohol to prevent gout pain. Alcohol consumption, especially beer, increases uric acid in the blood. As little as two beers a day increase the risk of a gout flare, so it's best to stop drinking beer altogether.

• 3

  Lose weight to reduce stress on joints and prevent gout pain. Maintaining a healthy weight is good for overall health, but it's especially important for anyone with a painful joint condition. Eat a healthy diet that limits purines. Drink plenty of water to improve health and increase chances of weight loss.

• 4

  Exercise to keep joints healthy and flexible. Exercise, along with a healthy diet, will help prevent future gout attacks and improve overall well-being.

• 5

  Talk over all medications, supplements and vitamins--prescription and non-prescription--with health care providers. Some medications, vitamins and herbal supplements can increase levels of uric acid in the body and cause gout flares.

• 6

  Take medications as directed to prevent gout pain. Once the right combination of medications is selected, it is vitally important they are taken at the right times and doses. Skipping medication can lead to uric acid buildup and a new round of gout pain.

• 7

  Seek medical attention at the first sign of a gout flare. Sometimes corticosteroids can be given to stop the attack if caught in time.

• 8

  Keep all appointments with health care providers. Stay on top of the condition by having routine blood tests and other diagnostic procedures to prevent gout pain and flares.