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Treating a Gout Attack
Contributed by: Bethany Vallandingham, Pharm.D. Candidate
KU School of Pharmacy
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Waking up in the middle of the night, you find your toes are swollen, red, and so tender that it even hurts to put your slippers on. These symptoms could indicate a sudden gout attack. Gout has been recognized by medical authorities for centuries, and while you may not be able to completely prevent an attack, knowing the signs and symptoms can help you get the help you need faster.
What is gout?
Gout is a form of arthritis characterized by sudden attacks of burning pain, stiffness, and swelling in a joint. It usually occurs in the big toe, and can reoccur unless it is treated. Luckily, gout is a treatable condition, and there are many ways to reduce the risk of an outbreak.
What causes gout?
Having too much uric acid in the blood causes gout. Most of the time uric acid is not harmful, but when levels are too high it can form sharp crystals in your joints that cause pain and inflammation. Gout occurs more frequently in men then women, and the chances of
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having gout increase if you are overweight, drink excessive alcohol, or eat lots of meat and fish. Some medications, such as diuretics can also increase uric acid levels.
What are the symptoms of gout?
Gout generally occurs suddenly, and often at night. It usually affects the large joint of your big toe, but it can also affect many other joints such as those in your feet, ankles, knees, and wrists. The painful joints will also become tender, swollen and red. If left untreated, the pain usually lasts 1-2 weeks and then joints will feel like they are back to normal. Another attack may not happen for months of years.
How is gout treated?
Although gout is a painful condition, there are many medications available to treat it. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen can be purchased over the counter to control the pain and inflammation associated with gout. Colchicine and prednisone are some of the prescription medications
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that are able to treat gout effectively. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about which options might be right for you.
How can gout be prevented?
Although no specific diet can prevent gout indefinitely, some simple dietary guidelines can decrease the chance an attack. Decrease the amount of red meat and seafood in your diet since these substances are high in purines, which break down into uric acid in your body. Also, avoid alcoholic drinks, which can limit your body's ability to get rid of uric acid. Try to increase your consumption of low-fat dairy products and complex carbohydrates, such as whole-grain breads. Make sure to drink plenty of fluids, as this will help to dilute the uric acid in your body.
For additional information talk with your pharmacist or physician.
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Balls Hen House Pharmacies
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8120 Parallel Parkway
Kansas City, KS 66109
(913) 334-1660
6238 N. Chatham Road
Kansas City, MO 64151
(816) 746-1475
1015 N.E. Rice Road
Lee's Summit, MO 64086
(816) 525-1479
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13600 S. Blackbob
Olathe, KS 66062
(913) 782-2039
2724 W 53rd St
Fairway, KS 66205
913-236-4983
6900 W. 135th Street
Overland Park, KS 66223
(913) 814 WELL (9355)
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Sprint Campus
6450 Sprint Parkway
Overland Park, KS 66251
(913) 315-8646
Merriam Town Center
5800 Antioch Rd.
Merriam, KS 66202
(913) 831-4140
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