General Treatment

A practical approach to gout

Current management of an 'old' disease

General treatment recommendations

Serum uric acid concentrations may be reduced with nonpharmacologic therapy.

Useful dietary and lifestyle changes include weight reduction, decreased alcohol ingestion, decreased consumption of foods with a high purine content, and control of hyperlipidemia and hypertension.

Used alone, however, these measures will probably not reduce serum uric acid levels to normal, which is the treatment goal for the prevention of acute gout attacks.

Symptomatic hyperuricemia usually requires medication.

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What Can People With Gout Do to Stay Healthy?

Some things that you can do to stay healthy are:

• Take the medicines your doctor prescribes as directed.

• Tell your doctor about all the medicines and vitamins you take.

• Plan follow up visits with your doctor.

• Maintain a healthy, balanced diet. Avoid foods that are high in purines, and drink plenty of water.

• Exercise regularly and maintain a healthy body weight. Ask your doctor about how to lose weight safely. Fast or extreme weight loss can increase uric acid levels in the blood.

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What Research Is Being Done on Gout?

Scientists are studying:

• Which NSAIDs are the most effective treatments for gout

• New medicines that safely lower uric acid in the blood and reduce symptoms

• Enzymes that break down purines in the body.

Scientists are also studying the role of genetics and environmental factors in hyperuricemia and gout.

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The above opinionated views and information serves to educated and informed consumer .  The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. .It should not replaced professional advise and consultation.  A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions 

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