How to Manage Gout in Older Adults

A gout is a form of arthritis affecting millions  worldwide, particularly older adults. It results from too much uric acid, leading to painful swelling and joint inflammation. Although gout frequently affects older adults, appropriate medical care and lifestyle modifications can effectively manage the condition. 

It’s essential to understand that the management of gout is not a one-size-fits-all approach and will depend on individual circumstances. Therefore, working with a healthcare provider to develop an individualized treatment plan to manage gout effectively is crucial. 

With the right strategies and tools, older adults can successfully manage their gout symptoms and enjoy an improved quality of life. In this blog post, we’ll dive deeper into the various strategies for managing gout, including lifestyle changes, medication, and natural remedies. 

Lifestyle Changes for Managing Gout 

One of the best methods to treat gout is to make lifestyle changes that can help reduce the risk of flare-ups. Here are some tips to consider. 

Watch Your Diet 

Certain foods are known to trigger gout attacks, such as foods high in purines, like red meat, shellfish, and alcohol. Limiting or avoiding these foods can lower your risk of gout flares. Instead, focus on a balanced diet  with many whole grains, fruits, veggies, and dairy products.

Stay Hydrated 

Frequently drinking water might assist your body in eliminating uric acid, reducing the risk of gout attacks. Aiming to drink at least eight glasses of water daily can avoid sugary drinks and alcohol, which can dehydrate you. 

Exercise Regularly

Regular physical activity can help improve joint mobility and reduce the risk of gout flares. Choose low-impact exercises, like walking, swimming, or cycling, and aim for at least 30 minutes of activity most days. 

Maintain a Healthy Weight 

Obesity is a known risk factor for gout in the elderly, as it can increase uric acid levels in the body. Maintaining a healthy weight decreases the risk of gout flares and enhances general health.=;

Manage Stress

Stress can trigger gout flares in some people, so finding ways to manage stress levels is important. Consider relaxation techniques, like deep breathing, yoga, or meditation, or talk to your healthcare provider about other stress-reduction strategies. 

Medications for Gout 

In addition to lifestyle changes, several medications can help with gout treatment in the elderly, including: 

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) 

These medications, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can aid in lowering discomfort and swelling throughout a gout episode. 

Colchicine 

This medication can also help reduce pain and inflammation during a gout attack and may be prescribed as a gout flare treatment. 

Corticosteroids 

In some cases, corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and pain during a gout flare-up. 

Urate-Lowering Therapy

Urate-lowering therapy may be prescribed for people who experience frequent gout attacks or have high uric acid levels in their blood. This medication can help reduce the risk of gout flares by lowering uric acid levels in the body. 

Natural Remedies for Managing Gout 

Natural remedies that may help control gout symptoms also include: 

1. Cherry Juice 

Some studies suggest that drinking cherry juice can aid in lowering discomfort and swelling throughout a gout episode. Cherries are rich in antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation. 

  2. Turmeric

In traditional medicine, turmeric has been utilized for generations to reduce inflammation. Adding turmeric to your diet or taking a turmeric supplement may help manage your gut symptoms. 

  3. Ginger

Ginger is another natural anti-inflammatory that may help reduce pain and inflammation associated with gout. You can add ginger to your diet in tea or supplement form or use ginger essential oil in a carrier oil for topical application. 

4. Epsom Salt

A warm Epsom salt bath may reduce joint pain and inflammation associated with gout. The magnesium in Epsom salt can also help relax muscles and improve circulation. 

  5. Apple Cider Vinegar 

According to some, drinking apple cider vinegar helps lower the body’s uric acid levels  and shield against gout episodes. Drink it by combining apple cider vinegar or water, or use it topically as a compress. 

It is important to note that while natural remedies can help manage gout symptoms, they should never be used in place of chronic gout treatment. Always talk to your healthcare provider before trying any new natural remedies. 

Taking Control: Effective Strategies for Managing Gout in Older Adults

Gout can be challenging for older adults to manage. Still, the right strategies and gout treatment can control symptoms and reduce the risk of future attacks. Key lifestyle changes, such as following a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and engaging in regular exercise, can lessen inflammation and help prevent gout flare-ups in the future. 

Medications, such as anti-inflammatory drugs and urate-lowering therapies, can also effectively manage gout symptoms. Additionally, natural remedies such as cherries, turmeric, ginger, and Epsom salt can be used with medical treatment to reduce inflammation and pain further. However, working with a healthcare provider to develop an individualized treatment plan to manage gout effectively is crucial. It’sIt’s also essential to note that managing gout is an ongoing process, and it’s vital to continue following a healthy lifestyle and treatment plan to prevent future flare-ups.

Don’t hesitate to ask a healthcare professional for assistance if you or a loved one has gout. At Ocana Medical, our healthcare professionals can provide an individualized gout management plan to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. We offer various services, including preventive healthcare, medication management, and natural remedies to help you effectively manage your gout. 

Book an appointment with us today by calling (813) 968-8314 or emailing info@ocanamedicalcenter.com. You may learn more about our services and how we can help you reduce your gout symptoms by visiting our website.

Don’t let gout hold you back from enjoying life to the fullest. Contact us today and take the first step towards a healthier, pain-free future. 

Ocana Medical, located in Tampa, FL, aims to bring you as much information as possible to keep you healthy. We're in this together. #ocanacares