Natural Health Alternatives

  Gout is a special type of arthritis caused by an excess of uric acid in the blood, says the American Diabetes Association (ADA). Uric acid crystals tend to settle in joints in the lowest part of the body, which is why the big toe is most often affected. These crystals can cause the big toe joint to become red, warm and swollen, and can be extremely painful.

Interestingly enough, about 18 % of people with this find that it was genetic.  Adult males are much more likely than females or younger folks to get gout.  Being overweight is also going to elevate your risk of coming down with gout as can drinking too much alcohol.  Exposure to lead and certain medicines can also raise your risk of getting gout.

 If you have these diabetes symptoms of gout, your health care provider may withdraw some joint fluid and examine it under a microscope to look for crystals, explains the ADA. Medication and a special diet to lower the uric acid levels in the body are the main treatments.

Here is some foods to avoid with gout are those that contain purine, such as sardines or anchovies. Stay away from organ meats and dried legumes. An increase in the consumption of cherries and strawberries will be helpful.  Drinking two or three quarts of water and avoiding the use of tobacco or other smoking products will also yield good results.

Sometimes it is difficult to tell the difference between gout and an infection caused by bacteria. If you think you might have gout, it’s important to see your health care provider. Repeated episodes of gout tend to damage the big toe joint and may even make it stiff. This can cause a high-pressure spot on your foot that is more prone to developing a callus and an ulcer.

Be sure to check your feet daily for any signs of redness or ulcerations.