Mens Health

Gout, an inflammation of the joints of the feet and hands, particularly affecting the big toe, can be extremely painful. It can come on suddenly, even without a family history of the disease. It is caused by a build-up of uric acid in the system, and many men think that they have just injured their toe until the problem is properly diagnosed. (A blood test can be taken to check uric acid levels.)

Gout often appears after men have binged on rich foods, alcohol-especially red and white wine, cheese and rich sauces. Christmas time or party time can often bring about an attack, especially when accompanied by low water intake.

Treatment & Prevention Program

• Drink a large glass of water every hour.
• Place your foot or hand into a bucket of warm water with a cup of Epsom salts and soak for 20 minutes three times a day. The salts draw out uric acid from the affected area.
• Take a teaspoon of fluid extract or tincture of nettle three to four times a day until better. This herb has a great history of assisting gout, going back to the kings and queens of the Middle Ages after they had wined and dined on rich meats and wines. Continue with one teaspoon of nettle in a glass of water once a day as a preventative.

Tagged under:alcohol blood test gout gout treatment Health Care uric acid levels

Share This

Filed under: Health Care