Table of Contents
Fluids & Alcohol
Drinking plenty of water and other nonalcoholic beverages helps remove urate crystals from the body.
It is wise to avoid large amounts of alcohol which promotes purine metabolism and uric acid production. It also may reduce excretion of uric acid. Avoid heavy drinking, especially binge drinking of beer or distilled spirits.
Medications
Medications to treat other conditions can increase uric acid levels. Certain diuretics and low dose daily aspirin for instance can affect uric acid levels. Switching to alternative therapies may be necessary.
Avoid Joint Injury
People with gout should also attempt to avoid activities that cause repetitive joint trauma, such as wearing tight shoes.
Preventing an Attack During Travel
Travel is an example of an activity that increases the risk of gout attacks. It not only increases stress, but eating and drinking patterns may change. Before traveling, patients should discuss preventive measures with their health care providers. The doctor may prescribe a prednisone tablet to be taken immediately at the first sign of a gout attack. In most cases, this stops the episode.
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Review Date: 01/04/2011
Reviewed By: Harvey Simon, MD, Editor-in-Chief, Associate Professor of Medicine,
Harvard Medical School; Physician, Massachusetts General Hospital.
Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M.,
Inc.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)
