Treating The Pain Of Gout
Gout pain is no laughing matter
Ottawa is a fun place in summer. For example, you will be able to enjoy street performers at the Ottawa International Busker Festival (Buskerfest) in July or August at Sparks Street Villageor maybe not, if you happen to get a gout attack. Nothing like excruciating pain in your big toe to take the fun out of life, and you out of the fun! Thats why treating gout pain is essential.
Although studies of alternative treatments (coffee, cherries, vitamin C) may eventually yield some promising results, at present the main way to deal with the condition is through medication. Home treatment for gout and making the right food choices can also help.
If an attack wakes you up at night, make sure you elevate your foot and use ice therapy right away to try to cool down the pain and reduce the swelling. Then call us in the morning so we can recommend the best pain reliever for you to try. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are usually the first option, but others include colchicine or oral corticosteroids.
Gout and Your Overall Health
As with many other conditions, there is a definite relationship between gout, weight, exercise, and food. Overweight and obese people are at increased risk for gout, so eat in moderation and exercise regularly to maintain a healthy weight. Certain gout foods seem to trigger attacks as well, because they are higher in the purines that your body finds it hard to handle. These include red meat, some seafood, alcohol, and drinks sweetened with fructose. Drinking lots of water may help flush excess uric acid from your body.
If the problem becomes chronic with repeated attacks, there are other medications that may help prevent future attacks by managing your uric acid levels. Please dont suffer needlessly. Contact OttawaFootClinic in Ontario for help. Simply call our Deakin St. office by dialing (613) 595-9700 or fill out our online contact form to schedule an appointment.