Gout is a common form of arthritis that can affect any joint, most commonly the big toe. Gout usually occurs in both asymptomatic and symptomatic phases. When symptoms occur, it is called a flare-up or an attack. A gout attack can be accompanied by pain, swelling, redness, and difficulty moving the joint and usually lasts one to two weeks. There are many things that can trigger a gout attack: from foods to medications Dehydration.
Common triggers of gout attacks
This disease is caused by high levels of uric acid in the body. Uric acid is formed when the body breaks down purines, chemicals that occur naturally in the body and in certain foods. Uric acid is normally broken down and excreted in the urine. If excess uric acid is not excreted properly, needle-like crystals can form in the joints, which can lead to gout attacks.
Some of the triggers for these flare-ups are known. And these factors can largely be avoided. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of the factors is required to prevent or control this disease.
certain types of meat and seafood
Many foods rich in purines can increase uric acid levels in the body, increasing the risk of a gout attack. Foods high in purines include:
- Red meats such as beef, lamb and pork
- Organ meats such as liver and kidneys
- some seafood, such as anchovies
- sardine
- mussels
- Scallop
- Trout
- tuna
However, not all foods rich in purines increase uric acid levels or the risk of gout. Vegetables such as peas, beans, lentils, asparagus, spinach and mushrooms are rich in purines, but eating them in moderation does not seem to have an impact on the risk of gout.
alcoholic drinks
Consumption of beer, wine and alcohol is known to increase uric acid levels in the blood. The more alcohol you drink, the greater your risk of a gout attack.
However, a study found that even moderate alcohol consumption can increase the risk of a gout attack in men. In fact, male participants who drank two drinks within 24 hours had a 36% higher risk of developing gout than those who didn’t drink alcohol in the same period. On the other hand, drinking a drink within 24 hours does not significantly increase your risk. Limiting alcohol consumption can help prevent emergencies.
Drinks and foods high in fructose
Fructose, a type of sugar, is the only sugar that can increase uric acid levels in the body. Drinks high in fructose, such as juices and sweetened soft drinks, have been shown to increase uric acid levels in the blood.
Eating foods high in fructose, such as cookies and candy, has also been linked to an increased risk of seizures. Avoiding or limiting these high-sugar drinks and foods can help reduce the risk of gout attacks.
higher body mass index
Being overweight or obese is associated with the initial development of gout. There is a connection between something higher Body mass index (BMI) and higher uric acid levels. This connection continues to work even if you already have this disease.
If you fall into the “overweight” or “obese” BMI category, losing weight through diet and exercise may be a way to lower your uric acid levels and prevent future breakouts.
Surprising triggers for gout
Certainly Groceries Drinks and lifestyle Factors are common triggers of gout attacks, other gout triggers should also be considered.
Pressure
The exact connection remains to be determined, but research suggests that stress can lead to increased levels of uric acid in the blood. To avoid attacks, researchers recommend gout patients avoid stress or take steps to reduce it
aspirin
Low-dose aspirin increases uric acid levels in the blood, sometimes almost doubling the risk of this disease attack. One study found that the risk of a gout attack increased after taking low-dose aspirin for two days. The lower the dose, the greater the correlation.
However, low-dose aspirin is often used to prevent cardiovascular disease. Therefore, even though it can trigger a gout attack, it is not recommended to stop or change its use if you are taking low-dose aspirin to protect yourself from a heart attack or stroke. Instead, you can address other problems in your life that can trigger this disease, such as consuming alcohol and red meat.
Dehydration
Dehydration can lead to an increase in uric acid levels due to decreased urine output.
To reduce the risk of this condition, people with gout should drink plenty of water every day. If you exercise or are in a hotter environment, such as a sauna, it is important to drink plenty of water.
Temperature change
Weather can have an impact on this disease. Both high temperatures and low humidity increase the risk of attacks of this disease. In particular, the combination of hot and dry weather can trigger gout attacks. Extremely high humidity also increases the risk of gout attacks, but to a lesser extent.
The exact reasons for these connections are not fully understood, but one theory is that dehydration plays a role. People with this disease should stay hydrated in hot or dry environments to prevent weather-related illness.
10 minute gout cure
Gout, a form of inflammatory arthritis, can cause excruciating joint pain, often affecting areas such as toes, ankles, and knees. When a gout attack occurs, rapid relief is of utmost importance. Here are some approaches to quickly relieve pain and regain your quality of life:
- Over-the-counter (OTC) medications: These easily available medications work wonders in relieving inflammation. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Advil (ibuprofen) And Aleve (naproxen) are effective in treating acute gout attacks. Taking it early during an attack can significantly reduce pain.
- Prescription drugs: If pain is severe, consult a doctor. Untreated inflammation can lead to permanent joint damage. If you need urgent relief, your doctor may prescribe medication such as: Colcrys (colchicine) or Indocin (indomethacin)fight the gout attacks quickly.
- Precautions: While acute treatment of this disease focuses on pain relief, preventive medications aim to lower uric acid levels and prevent future flare-ups. Common preventive medications include: Zyloprim (allopurinol), Probalan (Probenecid)And Uloric acid (febuxostat). Keep in mind that these will not provide immediate relief during an active flare-up.
- Non-drug approaches: Consider alternative therapies and nutritional supplements. Although not scientifically proven for acute flare-ups, some natural supplements can provide relief. Drinking enough fluids, using ice, and maintaining a healthy weight can also complement your gout treatment.
Remember that gout is a chronic disease and while there is no complete cure, timely intervention can significantly improve your well-being and overall well-being
Summarize
Common gout attack triggers such as red meat, alcohol, and high-sugar drinks should be limited or avoided to reduce the risk of gout attacks. Other triggers such as aspirin, stress, or the weather should also be considered when it comes to preventing and managing seizures.
Not everyone affected by It is affected by every trigger. To determine what triggers a gout attack, pay attention to what you ate or participated in before your gout attack. By recording these factors, you may be able to identify patterns in gout attacks.
