Gout - Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, Importance Of Diet And Medication

Blood Pressure And Other Medications

Individuals who have high blood pressure are often prescribed diuretics to reduce it. These medications are very effective at lowering an individual's blood pressure. Unfortunately, diuretics can be a significant trigger for gout. The reason for this is because diuretics flush the body more frequently, which means that individuals taking them are going to make more trips to the bathroom. Making more trips to the bathroom puts individuals at an increased risk of dehydration, which can then increase levels of uric acid in their bodies and trigger gout. Thus, individuals who have high blood pressure and are at risk of gout should talk to a doctor about the best blood pressure medication for their needs. If they need diuretics, they must develop an appropriate plan to manage the risks.

What To Do During A Gout Attack

Individuals can do a few things when they are in the midst of a gout attack. Taking action immediately when a gout attack strikes can potentially help them reduce the severity of the pain as well as how long the pain lasts. Of course, if individuals are able to visit a doctor immediately, this is the most effective course of action. Unfortunately, however, this is often not available to patients. If individuals experiencing a gout attack have to wait a few days to see their doctor, taking a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication can help take away some of the swelling and pain they are experiencing. Patients should also elevate their feet and legs. Making immediate dietary changes is also vital to reduce the build-up of uric acid in the body as fast as possible.