Wednesday, August 18, 2010

Types Of Gout Pain Remedies







Gout is a type of arthritis characterized by tenderness, redness and inflammation of the joints accompanied by attacks of pain. Gout can affect wrists, hands, toes, feet, ankles and knees. Gout develops when there are excess levels of uric acid in the bloodstream, thereby causing urate crystals to collect around joints. Gout sufferers have several pain remedies available to meet their needs.


Controlling Pain with Diet


What you put into your body can affect your gout pain and the possibility of an attack. Diets high in protein can spell trouble for the gout sufferer. The Mayo Clinic (see References below) recommends eating no more than 5 or 6 ounces of fish, poultry or lean meat each day and drinking plenty of fluids. Avoiding alcohol might also prove helpful as alcohol impedes uric acid excretion.


NSAIDs


Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, are designed to control gout pain and inflammation. Many of these types of drug can be found in over-the-counter products, such as naproxen (found in Aleve) and ibuprofen (found in Motrin and Advil). A doctor might prescribe a more powerful NSAID. As with any prescription drug, you should discuss the possible side effects with your doctor.


Colchicine


Colchicine is designed to reduce inflammation associated with gout pain. According to the Mayo Clinic, it can be taken in small amounts regularly for a long period of time, or a large amount can be taken over a short period of time. Colchincine does carry some side effects, including diarrhea, vomiting and nausea. You should discuss dosing and potential side effects with your doctor before taking Colchicine.


Steroids








Your doctor might prescribe a steroid to reduce gout pain caused by inflammation. One steroid that may be prescribed is prednisone. Depending on your condition, the steroid might be given via an injection or via a pill.

Tags: gout pain, side effects, doctor might, doctor might prescribe, effects with, effects with your