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What Is the Cure for Gout?

Gout is a chronic disorder caused by a deficiency in purine metabolism, which causes elevated uric acid levels in the body. This disorder is characterized by crystallized uric acid deposits accumulating around the joint area, causing painful swelling of the joints. The swelling usually occurs around the lower limb and feet area. There is currently no FDA-approved cure for gout. Treatment of disease symptoms consist of individually tailored drug combinations and nutrition recommendations targeting relief from pain and swelling, prevention of future attacks and decrease of uric acid crystal deposits in the joints.

  1. Relief of Pain and Swelling

    • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and corticosteroid drugs are commonly prescribed to reduce swelling and relieve severe pain and discomfort of the infected area. Colchicine is not FDA approved but is also prescribed as an anti-inflammatory treatment for gout. Side effects of NSAIDS include stomach and intestinal pain, ulcers and bleeding. Side effects of Colchicine include nausea and vomiting.

    Prevention of Future Attacks

    • Long-term medication such as probenecid and sulfinpyrazone are often prescribed to reduce the level and amount of acute attacks over time. These medications work to reduce uric acid blood levels by inducing rate of excretion of uric acid into the urine. A side effect, from these drugs, are kidney stones.

    Nutritional Prevention of Future Attacks

    • Moderate consumption of high-purine containing foods such as animal products, some green vegetables, shell fish and legumes is highly recommended to control levels of purine metabolism and uric acid production in the body. Low consumption of alcoholic beverages is also recommended.

    Treatment of Uric Acid Levels and Crystal Deposits

    • Allopurinol controls production of uric acid through inhibition of purine metabolism. Fubuxostat shrinks uric acid crystal deposits in the tissues and joints. Some side effects include severe rash, liver damage and kidney disease

    Home Remedy Suggestions

    • In addition to doctor guidance and prescription drugs, a variety of over-the-counter pain relievers and techniques such as increasing water intake, elevating joints, reducing weight, wearing comfortable shoes and creating a low stress environment are helpful for temporary relief of acute attack pain.

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