If you’ve ever experienced a gout attack, you know how painful it can be. Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the body. When uric acid levels become too high, tiny crystals can form in the joints, leading to sudden pain, swelling, redness, and stiffness—often affecting the big toe.
The good news is that healthy lifestyle habits and proper medical care can help reduce your risk of future flare-ups.
- Drink Plenty of Water: Staying hydrated helps your kidneys flush extra uric acid out of your body. Drink water regularly throughout the day.
- Limit High-Purine Foods: Uric acid comes from substances called purines. Try to eat less on red meat, organ meats, and seafood like sardines and shellfish.
- Choose Healthy Foods: Build your meals around fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy (like milk and yogurt), which support your joints and help prevent flare-ups.
- Watch Sugary Drinks and Alcohol: Avoid sodas and juices made with high-fructose corn syrup, and limit alcohol—especially beer—since they can quickly trigger attacks.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Staying active with walking, swimming, or biking helps your body manage uric acid. Just avoid crash diets, as rapid weight loss can actually shock your system and cause an attack.
- Follow Your Treatment Plan: If a doctor prescribes daily medication to manage your gout, take it exactly as directed and keep up with regular checkups.
When to See a Provider
Talk to your healthcare provider if you experience:
- Severe joint pain
- Frequent gout attacks
- Persistent swelling or redness
- Difficulty walking or performing daily activities
Early diagnosis and treatment can help relieve symptoms, prevent complications, and reduce the risk of long-term joint damage.
Our primary care providers can help you manage gout through personalized treatment plans, medication management, lifestyle counseling, and ongoing monitoring of your uric acid levels.
If you have questions about gout or would like to schedule an appointment, call 1-628-228-2828.
Disclaimer: No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
