Gout is a type of arthritis that occurs when uric acid crystals build up in the joints, causing pain, inflammation, and swelling. It commonly affects the big toe, but can also occur in other joints such as the ankle, knee, wrist, and elbow.
Gout attacks typically occur suddenly, often in the middle of the night, and can last for several days or even weeks. While there is no cure for gout, there are several things you can do to help manage the pain at night.
Keep the affected joint elevated:
Elevating the affected joint above the level of your heart can help reduce swelling and pain by promoting blood flow and reducing pressure on the joint. You can use pillows, cushions, or even a folded towel to prop up your foot, ankle, or knee while you sleep.
Apply ice:
Applying ice to the affected joint can help numb the pain and reduce swelling by constricting blood vessels and slowing down inflammation. You can wrap a bag of ice or a cold pack in a towel and apply it to the joint for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
Take medication:
Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen and naproxen can help reduce pain and inflammation by blocking the production of prostaglandins, which are responsible for causing pain and swelling. However, if your gout pain is severe or persists for more than a few days, your doctor may prescribe stronger medications such as colchicine or corticosteroids, which can provide more immediate and long-lasting relief.
Drink plenty of fluids:
Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water can help flush out excess uric acid from your body, which can reduce the frequency and severity of gout attacks. When you are dehydrated, uric acid becomes more concentrated in your bloodstream and is more likely to form crystals in your joints. Therefore, it is important to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water a day and avoid sugary drinks and alcohol, as these can increase uric acid levels.
Use supportive footwear:
Wearing shoes with good arch support and cushioning can help reduce pressure on the affected joint and provide additional comfort while you sleep. Avoid wearing tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes, as they can increase the risk of gout attacks.
Practice good sleep habits:
Getting enough restful sleep can help reduce stress and inflammation, which can trigger gout attacks. Make sure you are sleeping on a comfortable mattress and in a cool, dark, and quiet environment. Avoid using electronic devices like smartphones and tablets before bedtime, as the blue light they emit can interfere with your sleep quality.
Consider natural remedies:
Some natural remedies like cherries, turmeric, and ginger have been shown to help reduce inflammation and pain associated with gout. Cherries contain compounds that can help lower uric acid levels and reduce inflammation, while turmeric and ginger have anti-inflammatory properties that can help ease pain and swelling.
However, it is important to talk to your doctor before trying any natural remedies, as some can interact with medications or have side effects.
Manage your weight:
Being overweight or obese can increase your risk of gout, as well as make gout attacks more frequent and severe. Excess weight can put extra strain on your joints and increase the production of uric acid.
Therefore, maintaining a healthy weight through regular exercise and a balanced diet can help reduce the risk and severity of gout attacks. Aim to exercise for at least 30 minutes a day, most days of the week, and eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.
Reduce stress:
Stress can trigger gout attacks, so it is important to practice stress-reducing activities like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises. These activities can help you relax, reduce tension, and lower your stress levels. Additionally, getting enough restful sleep can also help reduce stress and inflammation, so make sure you prioritize good sleep hygiene.
Avoid trigger foods: Some foods like red meat, seafood, and alcohol can increase uric acid levels and trigger gout attacks. It is important to identify your trigger foods and avoid them as much as possible.
In summary, gout pain can be managed at night by keeping the affected joint elevated, applying ice, taking medication, drinking plenty of fluids, using supportive footwear, practicing good sleep habits, considering natural remedies, managing your weight, reducing stress, and avoiding trigger foods.
However, it is important to talk to your doctor before trying any new treatments or natural remedies, as some can interact with medications or have side effects. With the right management strategies in place, you can reduce the frequency and severity of gout attacks and enjoy a better quality of life.
Now Listen Very Carefully Here:
Gout is NOT for life — I cured 3 years of gout in 4 weeks
First, let me tell you: you have all my sympathy. I know exactly what you’re going through. When I had gout it was the worst pain I’d ever experienced. I honestly thought I was going to suffer it for the rest of my life.
I know gout will be pretty unpleasant for you too. But what do we do about it?
Eat less meat? Drink less alcohol? Drink more water? Follow the usual advice?
I did all that. It made zero difference to me. The pain remained as bad as ever. Our doctors mean well but the medications they prescribe are trying to manage the disease rather than cure it.
That’s not what a gout sufferer wants. I wanted that disease cured, not managed. I’m guessing you’re the same. Yet researchers from the US and Europe have already worked out what causes gout.
In fact, they’ve known for some years now.
And there is a drug-free natural health program that turns that knowledge into a cure. It has now worked for thousands of us.
It’s not complicated. I had gout for three years. I got rid of it in four weeks.
Since then?
More than two years with no flare-ups. No pain. No nothing. Simply no gout.
It’s your turn now. Let me tell you how it works.
