Top Tips to Avoid Gout Flare-Ups
We frequently see patients dealing with gout, a form of arthritis that causes sudden, painful flareups, particularly in the big toe. Gout is caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, often triggered by lifestyle factors. Here are some top tips to help you avoid gout flareups and keep your feet healthy.
1. Manage Your Diet: Uric acid is produced when your body breaks down purines, which are found in certain foods. High-purine foods, such as red meat, shellfish, and organ meats, should be limited. Instead, focus on low-purine foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Cherries and vitamin C-rich foods can be particularly helpful, as they may reduce uric acid levels.
2. Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can increase the concentration of uric acid in the blood. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to help flush uric acid from your system and reduce the risk of crystal formation.
3. Limit Alcohol and Sugary Beverages: Alcohol, especially beer, and sugary drinks like soda can elevate uric acid levels. Cutting back or avoiding these can significantly reduce your chances of a flareup.
4. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Being overweight increases the risk of developing gout and can make flareups more frequent and severe. Gradual weight loss through a healthy diet and regular exercise can lower uric acid levels without putting additional stress on your joints.
5. Take Medications as Prescribed: If your doctor has prescribed medication for gout, it’s essential to take it as directed. Medications like allopurinol can help lower uric acid levels and prevent future flareups.
Following these steps can help you manage gout and protect your feet from painful flareups. If you notice any signs of a gout attack, don’t hesitate to contact your podiatrist for further guidance.
Contact James C. Ricketti, DPM and let us address all your foot and ankle needs. Our board-certified podiatrist will tailor treatments based on your individual needs and with our state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment options, we’ll help you get back on your feet in no time! Call our office today at 609-587-1674 to make an appointment at our conveniently located Hamilton, NJ office.