I ate seafood gumbo even though I knew gout would happen - need to make better choices

On Saturday I had lunch with friends and made a terrible choice. One small bowl of gumbo with seafood should be fine. I will drink water and eat lots of bread with the meal. I was so wrong and it is now Wednesday and my left hand is so swollen and in pain. 

My new insurance wouldn’t cover mitigare gout meds so I called the pharmacy insurance help line to ask what gout medicine was covered that has the same therapeutic effects as my normally prescribed mitigare and they told me that allopurinal was covered by my pharmacy insurance policy. 

I took two pills. Drank 4 twenty oz bottles of water. Took 1000 mg of vitamin c supplements. Ate a bowl of cherrys. Filled one water bottle with fresh cut lemon slices of a whole lemon and filled that with water. I also took 600 mg of ibuprofen. 

Since I was loading up on what I am hoping to lower the uric acid in my system and flush out the uric acid caused by the purines in the gumbo, I am making sure to hydrate with a lot of water to prevent any damage to my kidneys.

I have also soaked my left arm in ice water filling a water pitcher with ice and cold water and let my wrist and fingers and forearm soak until the ice melted all the way.

Once this gout flare up is heeled up, I will make the choice to eat healthy foods that don’t contain high purine amounts that spike my uric acid levels up. The pain I’ve experienced this past few days from eating a bowl of gumbo is not worth it. I knew better yet I ate that delicious gumbo anyway. 

if you suffer from gout, you can choose to not suffer from gout. Stay super hydrated and take your gout meds. This gout pain is all my fault. So hopefully this post will help someone who makes the same mistakes and wrong good choices.

Sending good vibes your way. Be well


Lemon in the water can help gout if you are suffering now

Lemons have been touted for their potential health benefits, including their impact on gout. While there is limited scientific research specifically focused on the effects of lemon water on gout, some anecdotal evidence suggests that it may provide certain benefits. However, it’s important to note that lemon water alone is unlikely to cure gout or completely alleviate its symptoms. Here are a few potential benefits of lemon water in relation to gout:

1. Hydration: Lemon water can help keep you hydrated, which is crucial for gout management. Proper hydration promotes the flushing out of excess uric acid, reducing the risk of gout flare-ups.
2. Vitamin C content: Lemons are a good source of vitamin C, which has been associated with a lower risk of gout attacks. Vitamin C may help lower uric acid levels in the blood, potentially reducing the frequency and severity of gout episodes.
3. Alkalizing effect: Although lemons are acidic, they have an alkalizing effect on the body when metabolized. This alkalizing effect may help balance the body’s pH levels, which some believe can have a positive impact on gout.
4. Detoxification: Lemon water is often associated with detoxifying properties. While detoxification claims are not well-supported scientifically, adequate hydration through lemon water can aid in overall kidney function. Since the kidneys play a role in filtering and excreting uric acid, supporting kidney health is beneficial for gout management.

It’s important to remember that lemon water should be considered as part of an overall gout management plan, which includes lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, and medical advice from a healthcare professional. Lemon water alone is unlikely to provide a comprehensive solution for gout. If you’re considering incorporating lemon water into your routine, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure it aligns with your specific needs and medical history.


Gout the pain to prevent - quick cure and prevention

Title: Managing Gout Flare-Ups: Quick and Effective Remedies

Introduction:
Gout is a form of arthritis that causes sudden and intense pain, redness, and swelling in the joints, commonly affecting the big toe. While a gout flare-up can be debilitating, there are several strategies and remedies you can employ to alleviate symptoms and promote faster recovery. In this blog post, we will explore effective ways to manage and cure gout flare-ups promptly, allowing you to regain control of your life.

1. Stay Hydrated:
One of the key factors in managing gout flare-ups is maintaining proper hydration. Drinking an adequate amount of water helps flush out excess uric acid, the main culprit behind gout attacks. Aim for at least 8-10 cups of water per day to keep your body hydrated and encourage uric acid elimination.
2. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief:
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen can provide temporary relief from gout symptoms. These medications help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. Always follow the recommended dosage instructions and consult your healthcare professional before taking any medication.
3. Apply Ice Packs:
To reduce swelling and ease pain during a gout flare-up, applying ice packs to the affected joint can be beneficial. Wrap a cold pack or a bag of ice in a thin cloth and place it on the affected area for about 15-20 minutes every few hours. Remember to never apply ice directly to the skin.
4. Elevate the Affected Joint:
Raising the affected joint to a higher level than your heart can help reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort. Use pillows or cushions to prop up the affected limb, promoting better blood flow and minimizing pain.
5. Modify Your Diet:
Dietary changes play a crucial role in managing gout flare-ups. Limiting foods high in purines, such as red meat, seafood, organ meats, and sugary beverages, can help control uric acid levels. Instead, focus on consuming low-purine foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption can further prevent gout attacks.
6. Warm Compresses:
After the initial inflammation and pain have subsided slightly, applying warm compresses to the affected joint can help improve circulation and relax the muscles. Gently place a warm towel or use a heating pad set to a low temperature on the joint for 15-20 minutes at a time.
7. Rest and Protect the Joint:
During a gout flare-up, it is essential to give your body ample rest. Avoid putting excessive weight or strain on the affected joint to prevent further irritation and promote faster healing. Use crutches or a cane if necessary to minimize pressure on the joint.
8. Consult a Healthcare Professional:
If your gout symptoms persist, worsen, or occur frequently, it is crucial to seek medical advice. A healthcare professional can provide an accurate diagnosis, prescribe appropriate medication, and recommend a personalized treatment plan based on your condition.

Conclusion:
While gout flare-ups can be agonizing, there are several measures you can take to alleviate symptoms and promote faster recovery. By staying hydrated, taking over-the-counter pain relievers, applying ice packs, modifying your diet, using warm compresses, and consulting a healthcare professional when needed, you can effectively manage gout flare-ups and regain control of your daily life. Remember, each individual’s experience with gout may vary, so it is important to work closely with a medical professional to develop the most suitable treatment plan for your specific needs.