Gout is a form of arthritis caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in joints. It is an intensely painful disease, which in most cases affects only one joint (monoarthriti...
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Hi All,
This is my first time here (I'm a teacher in Thailand) and I have a basic question. From what I've read, they say gout left untreated will eventually lead to more and more attacks as well as damage to the joint. Then I read that some doctors advise no drug taking between attacks. I know the key to gout is controlling uric acid levels-- so this inter-attack treatment is basically lifestyle / dietry changes huh? Or are people here on long-term medication? If so, what exactly? how often? Side-effects? TIA Posted on 02/14/08, 11:02 pm |
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Best to consult your own doctor. But...in general, there are different types of treatment for gout. One is simply to wait for an attack and then treat it aggressively with NSAIDs, steroids, and/or colcochine to make it go away as quickly as possible. You'll get a list of foods you should avoid and told to drink lots of water.
If that doesn't prevent repeated painful flares your doctor may prescribe allanolol on a regular basis. Some people this doesn't help, some it makes nauseus. Whatever, if you do have a flare you'll have to stop taking it immediately or it will interfere with your treatment. Left untreated gout can damage the afflicted joints, yes. Usually NSAIDS reduce swelling and inflamation before this happens. As far as "natural" treatments some patients swear by cherry juice or baking soda. For some neither of these do any good. 
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Many thanks. Now I understand.
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