Oklahoma Pain Treatment Centers: Stopping gout attacks

Gout is a form of arthritis that is caused by a build-up of uric acid in the blood. For centuries, it was known as “the disease of kings,” as only the wealthy could afford the rich diet that can cause the disease.

The main symptoms of gout include what are known as gout attacks. These attacks take the form of severe pain and swelling in the joints. Any joint can be a target, but the ankles, knees, and elbows are the most common. A gout attack will hit its peak about 12-24 hours after its onset and will generally fall off after that even without any kind of treatment. Of course, you probably don’t have the time or patience to wait that long in severe pain, so Oklahoma Pain Treatment Centers has some tips to help ease the pain. And remember – if these solutions don’t work, schedule an appointment with us for more high-powered solutions.

Take over the counter medicine: Ibuprofen and naproxen (Aleve) can do wonders to help reduce gout pain. However, never take aspirin for gout pain as it can actually make the pain much worse.

Call your doctor: Your doctor may be able to prescribe a pain medication, as well as perform tests to confirm that it is gout.

Get a Cane: If the pain is in a lower joint, a cane can help you keep pressure off that joint as you move around.

Ice Down: You can manage the pain and inflammation by wrapping the affected joint in a bag of crushed ice covered by a towel. Keep it on the joint for 20-30 minutes at a time.

Revamp the Menu: Stop eating foods that are high in purine like shellfish, red meat, sweetbreads, and gravy.

If the pain persists, you may need more powerful methods of pain management. Our Oklahoma Pain Treatment Centers physicians can safely provide these solutions. Schedule an appointment today at 405-751-0011.