Gout

Gout is caused by a build up of minerals in your joints over time. It is a type of arthritis that may cause joint pain and swelling.

Who usually gets gout?

• People who do not eat well
• People who drink too much alcohol on a regular basis
• Men in their late 30's and older
• Women over 60 years old
• People that are overweight
• People who use diuretics (fluid pills)
• People who have high levels of triglycerides in their blood

Gout cannot be cured, but it usually can be kept under control, if you follow your health professional's suggestions.

Home Treatment:

The main aim of treatment is to stop your pain, prevent future attacks, and stop long term harm to your joint. Some suggested treatments are:

• Medication that is not aspirin or steroids. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like naproxen sodium, ibuprofen, or indomethacin may be suggested by your doctor. Aspirin and drugs that are closely related to ASA may make your gout worse.
• Medication may also be prescribed after your attack is over to help lower the uric acid in your blood by making you pee more of it out. Sometimes this leads to kidney stones.
• Another medication (allopurinol) can be used to decrease how much uric acid your body makes. You would need to take this for the rest of your life. If you stop taking it your gout will return.
• Try losing weight
• Decrease the amount of alcohol you drink.
• Decrease purine-rich foods such as organ meats (liver, kidney), sardines, anchovies, red meat, gravies, beans, beer, and wine.
• Drink lots of water: at least 8 large glasses full a day

Return to the Emergency Department IF:

• You have more redness, swelling, warmth, in the area that is causing you problems.
• Fever