Gout, also known as gouty arthritis, is a painful condition caused by high levels of uric acid crystallizing in the joints, often affecting the big toe. While medications can help manage the condition, taking the right steps at home can further reduce flare-ups and discomfort.
At Manhattan Podiatry Associates, our board-certified podiatrists in Uptown and Midtown New York City specialize in diagnosing and treating gout. Below, we share a step-by-step guide to managing your symptoms effectively at home.
To treat gout attacks, our team may prescribe medications such as colchicine or corticosteroids. The best option for you will depend on your pain level and how many joints are affected.
Aspirin, particularly in low doses, reduces uric acid excretion and may induce hyperuricemia, which increases your risk of gout. If you’re unsure if your pain medication interferes with any of your other prescriptions for gout, don’t hesitate to contact our team.
In addition to taking pain relief medication, you may also need to make a few accommodations to alleviate pain. These include:
In many cases, you may need to rely on several of these strategies to find relief during a gout attack.
While some medication is taken during gout attacks to alleviate pain, you may need additional medications for long-term gout management and prevention of future attacks.
Your provider may also prescribe allopurinol, febuxostat (which lowers uric acid levels), or probenecid (which helps your kidneys remove uric acid more efficiently).
When a gout flare-up strikes, act fast. You can rest and elevate your foot to reduce inflammation and swelling. Apply ice packs for 15–20 minutes at a time, but be sure to keep a cloth between your skin and the ice pack.
Like other forms of arthritis, what you eat and drink plays a big role in managing gout. Most importantly, limit purine-rich foods like red meat, shellfish, and organ meats. Purines are compounds in food that can break down into uric acid.
What you drink is equally important. Drink plenty of water to help flush out excess uric acid, and avoid alcohol and sugary drinks, which can increase uric acid buildup.
Extra weight can increase uric acid levels, which can make gout worse. As with any weight loss plan, focus on a gradual loss of about 1-2 pounds per week. As long as you’re not in an active flare-up, stay active with low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or cycling.
Some natural options may help prevent or reduce gout symptoms. Vitamin C supplements, for example, have been linked to decreased uric acid levels. According to a 2021 literature review published in the journal Nutrients, daily vitamin C supplements as low as 500 milligrams for two months reduced serum uric acid levels by 0.5 mg/dL.
Turmeric supplements (or even fresh turmeric) can also help reduce inflammation and pain. Talk to your Manhattan Podiatry Associates provider before starting any new supplements.
Tracking your gout symptoms can help you prevent future flare-ups. Keep a food and symptom journal to identify triggers, and get regular blood tests to monitor your uric acid levels.
Ignoring gout pain can lead to long-term joint damage and reduced mobility. Conveniently located in Uptown and Midtown, New York City, we specialize in advanced podiatric care to help patients manage gout and other foot conditions effectively.
Do not let gout disrupt your daily life. Click to schedule an appointment or call (845) 539-1848 or (845) 704-4692 today.
