Gouty arthritis (gout) is one of the most painful forms of arthritis. It has also been documented for hundreds of years. Over 5 million Americans suffer from gout; Ben Franklin was also affected by gout .
Gout occurs when there is a build up of uric acid. A build up of uric acid leaves behind tiny crystals, especially in the joints. The crystal create the inflammation that leads to arthritis, the crystals can also cause kidney stones and decreased kidney functioning.
Causes of Gout
Uric acid breaks down from purines in the foods we eat. Intense joint inflammation is caused by the deposits of uric acid crystals which send chemical signals that create inflammation, pain, redness and swelling.
Obesity, fast weight gain (like in puberty) and alcohol abuse, some medications and high blood pressure increase the likelihood of gout. Dehydration, fever, excessive eating and drinking can act as catalysts for the onset of gout.
Symptoms of Gout
The joint at the base of the big toe is the most common location for the onset of gout. The toe can be so painful to the touch that even the weight of a bed sheet on the toe can send the gout sufferer into severe pain. Tenderness, redness and swelling are common symptoms.
Home Remedies for Gout
The American Dietetic Association recommends a healthy diet with moderate amounts of lean protein; limiting meat and fish to 4-6 ounces per day. Drinking ample amounts of water; 8-16 glasses per day and avoid alcohol intake in general.
Coffee has been linked in research to reducing the levels of uric acid. Both regular and decaffeinated coffees are thought to lower uric acid levels. Reasonable levels of vitamin C are also connected to reducing uric acid in the system. Carefully monitor doses, as too much vitamin C can increase the levels of uric acid.
Apples, water with the juice of a lemon, bananas and the juice of French green beans are all said to be helpful in reducing the symptoms of gout.
Organ meat (liver, kidneys, etc) and some seafood like herring, anchovies and mackerel are all high in purines. Purines are directly responsible for creating excess uric acid in the body. Reducing or eliminating these foods can help relieve gout.
Soaking the foot affected by gout in Epsom salts or in a bath with ground ginger added to the water are linked to relieving the pain of gout. Elevating the affected area, or immobilizing the area may be effective in reducing the pain and swelling associated with gout.
For some affected with gout; meditation and relaxation may help control the pain and inflammation discomfort of gout. Meditation makes for a healing, relaxed state of mind which can help in the self management of pain, as a natural gout treatment it can be very effective.
