GOUT

of the big toe that spreads to the other joints. A severe bout will be accompanied by chills and fever. The onset of gout may be sudden, it may last for three to five days, and it may recur often. It is caused by a high uric acid content in the blood and this can be caused by high blood pressure, obesity, dehydration, some medications, a vitamin B5 or A deficiency, diuretics, psoriasis, anaemia or impaired kidney function. Alcohol plays a definite role in gout attacks. The joints swell and hard lumps appear on the fingers, toes or ears. Don’t ignore gout, kidney stones can develop. Gout should be diagnosed with a blood test because the symptoms can be mistaken for arthritis.

TREATMENT

A doctor can supply painkillers and anti-inflammatory.
There are medications that reduce acid in the blood.
If the pain is very severe, steroid injections can be taken in the larger joints for immediate relief of pain.
Some of the long-term control medications have serious side effects. Be sure, if you take them, that you have your doctor monitor your skin, liver and kidneys closely.
Do not stress your joints by participating in high impact sports, rather swim.

CONSULT A DOCTOR

Consult your doctor if your joints are very painful or if you suspect that you have kidney stones, doctors can prescribe medications that can ease the pain.

AN ALTERNATIVE CHOICE

HOMEOPATHY

Arnica, Belladonna and Colchicum can be used if the gout starts to spread to other joints.
If itching accompanies a severe attack, use Urtica Urens.
If your joints are red and hot, use Bryonia.

AROMATHERAPY

Rosemary and wintergreen oils should be used for massages.