Relief for Gout

Gout used to have the name: Podagra. It is a unique form of arthritis. Gout pain is caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals (due to hyperuricemia) in joints. It is an immensely painful disease, which in most cases affects only one joint, most commonly the big toe. The crystals inside the joint cause immense joint pain whenever the affected area is moved. Gout affects 1% of Western populations at some point in their lives. About 12% of gout is attributed to dietary causes which include a strong association with the consumption of alcohol, sugar, and meat and seafood. The intake of dairy products, vegetables, and the total protein intake do not affect the occurrence of gout.

 Relief gout comes in a variety of treatment options. Treatment with vitamin supplements, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDs), steroids, or colchicine improves symptoms. Once the acute attack has subsided, levels of uric acid are usually lowered via lifestyle changes and long-term prevention with allopurinol. Treatment objectives include managing the symptoms of an acute attacks and preventing further attacks via reducing serum uric acid levels. Ice applied for 20 to 30 minutes several times a day decreases pain.

NSAIDs are the usual first line treatment for gout with no significant difference between agents in effectiveness. Improvement may be seen within 4 hours. They however are not recommended in those with certain other health problems such as gastrointestinal bleeding, renal failure or heart failure. For those unable or unwilling to take NSAIDs, vitamin supplements are an effective option for many.  The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) shows that more people are using alternative and holistic therapies to treat pain (38% of adults & 12% of kids). Americans are now spending $34 billion on alternative therapies each year.  One gout supplement getting a lot of attention right now if Flexcin with CM8. The company announced a 32% increase in sales in 2009 to people who are looking for natural options to treat gout and other joint pain. There are a variety of supplements on the market and most include ingredients like glucosamine, chondroitin. Flexcin’s main ingredient is CM8 (Cetyl Myristoleate) which is a natural compound that relieves joint pain at its source by reducing inflammation and irritation of the joints and tissues.  It works as an anti-inflammatory and pain reliever. CM8 acts as a lubricant in joints, muscles and other tissues, allowing them to move more smoothly. In addition it is an immune system modulator which can be effective against auto-immune conditions.

Glucocorticoids have been found to be equally effective to NSAIDs and may be used if contraindications exist for NSAIDs. Intra-articular steroids have also been found to be effective however the risk of concurrent joint infection must be ruled out.

Colchicine is another alternative for those unable to tolerate NSAIDs. Its side effects (primarily gastrointestinal upset) have decreased its usage. Gastrointestinal upset however depends on the dose and the risk can be decreased by using smaller yet still effective doses. Colchicine may interact with other commonly prescribed drugs such as atorvastatin and erythromycin among others.

For more information on these gout relief treatment options, ask your doctor or pharmacist.