Gout usually affects the large joint of the big toe, but can also affect other joints, such as the knee, ankle, foot, hand, wrist and elbow. In rare cases, it may later affect the shoulders, hips or spine. Gout does not spread from joint to joint.
Gout Pain:
Gout is a form of arthritis that causes severe pain and inflammation in the joints. It is one of the most painful rheumatic diseases and can appear swiftly and cause extreme burning pain. 1% of the population suffer from gout, disturbing their sleep and causing immense pain it can cause so much pain in fact that even putting on a sock can be impossible.
Gout Causes:
When the body increases its production of uric acid or if the kidneys do not eliminate enough of it from the body, levels build up. This is called hyperuricemia. Hyperuricemia is not a disease and is not dangerous. However, if excess uric acid crystals form as a result of hyperuricemia, gout can develop.
Symptoms of Gout:
Gout develops quickly, often within 12 to 24 hours. Signs and symptoms of a gout attack include:
• Severe pain and tenderness in the affected joint.
• Swelling of the affected joint.
• The skin over the joint may feel hot and tight and may look shiny and red.
Some people may also experience nausea, a loss of appetite and a slight fever.
Remedies for Gout:
* Maintaining a proper weight, and getting regular exercise reduces the risk and severity of gout attacks.
* Avoid foods with high levels of purines. As we mentioned before, foods with high purine levels include shellfish, alcohol, organ meat, creamy sauces, dried peas, etc.
* Foods known to decrease the occurrence of gout include: dairy, foods high in potassium, black cherry juice, blueberries and lemon juice.
* Immediately treating gout will not allow it to get worse. We will now go over treatment, and natural remedies for gout in more detail.
* Ice the joint: Wrap the joint in a cool gel pack or surround the joint with ice wrapped in a towel. Ice for 20- to 30-minute intervals.
* Apple cider vinegar: Take a homemade tonic made from two teaspoons of cider vinegar mixed with two teaspoons of honey, twice daily.
* Eat raw garlic: Regular consumption of garlic may reduce your episodes of gout.
* Apply mustard paste: In between icing sessions, you can apply a paste made from ground mustard seed and whole wheat powder, mixed in a one to one ratio with water.