Gout is one of those conditions which can be aided considerably with a change in diet and lifestyle, and is a form of arthritis which is normally associated with "high living". This condition causes a rather painful accumulation of crystals of uric acid around the joint. I have seen many gout patients over the years, and I think I have seen one or two a women over the years in my clinic complaining of this rather painful condition. For those gout sufferers who experience frequent lingering attacks, their gout condition will eventually become chronic. Chronic cases of gout involve more joints, and the constant presence of uric acid crystal deposits within the joint, and the soft tissues that surround it, leads to persistent inflammation. Chronic inflammation is a sign that destructive changes have occurred within the joint. Signs and Symptoms of Gout To confirm a diagnosis of gout, doctors will first have to test the synovial fluid found in the joint by using a needle to draw a sample of the fluid from a person's inflamed joint. Under the microscope, the doctor will look for monosodium urate crystals in the fluid sample by placing it on a slide. If the person is diagnosed with gout, the doctor will almost always see crystals in the fluid sample obtained from the inflamed joint. Howere their absence does not completely rule out the diagnosis of gout. Doctors may also find it useful to examine joint or tophi deposits to diagnose gout. The observable signs and symptoms of gout are: Attack of arthritis in only one joint, usually the toe, ankle, or knee Arthritis that develops in 1 day Hyperuricemia More than one attack of acute arthritis Painful joint that is swollen, red, and warm Presence of uric acid crystals in joint fluid What causes an acute gout attack? Certain medications, such as some types of diuretics, can cause gout. Aspirin and niacin (Vitamin B3) can also raise uric acid levels. Certain diseases can lead to an excessive production of uric acid in the body, including some leukaemias, lymphomas and some haemoglobin (blood) disorders. Some studies have indicated an increased prevalence of low thyroid function (hypothyroidism) in people with gout. Dehydration (alcohol & caffeine dehydrates). Injury to a joint. Excessive intake of purine-containing foods (see list below). Heavy alcohol intake. Recent surgery (this may be related to changes in the body fluid balance because of fasting before surgery). Family history - hereditary. Natural Gout Cures Avoid all alcohol, especially beer. A key issue in the gout natural remedies list. Exercise: Strengthening exercises to improve muscles around joint. Rotational movements to lubricate joint. Exercise to help reduce weight and improve overall health. A surprising addition to a natural gout cures list. Charcoal Poultice: Make a poultice using 1/2 cup of activated charcoal, 3 tablespoons of ground flaxseed and warm water. This will helpdraw out the toxins. Also take 1/2 -1 teaspoon of activated charcoal daily. Hot / Cold Compresses: The application of alternate hot and cold compresses helps dissolve the uric acid crystals that are causing you gout pain in your joint(s). For hot use a hot towel, or,a bucket or basin filled with hot water (90 deg F). For a cold compress use ice cubes in a plastic bag. Apply hot for 3 minutes then cold for 30 seconds. Do this for 20 minutes and always finish with a cold compress. Fruit and Vegetables: Eat 5 servings of fresh fruit and vegetables daily. Their water soluble dietary fiber content helps to naturally flush uric acid out of your system.But do not eat cauliflower, asparagus or mushrooms, they are known to encourage your gout.
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