What are the treatment options for gout?
Disease description:
I'm currently suffering greatly from gout. My toe joints are severely painful, red, and swollen. Sometimes the pain is so intense that I can't even walk. The pain tends to worsen at night, frequently disrupting my sleep. I would like to know what treatment options are available for gout.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Tiesheng
Gout mainly presents as arthritis, tophi, and uric acid nephropathy. Common treatment methods:
1. Dietary adjustment: restrict intake of high-purine foods, such as meat, seafood, coffee, alcohol, etc., to reduce uric acid production. At the same time, drink plenty of water, ensuring a daily intake of more than 2000 ml, to promote uric acid excretion.
2. Lifestyle improvement: maintain a healthy weight, adhere to regular and appropriate exercise, and avoid strenuous physical activity. Ensure adequate rest and sleep, avoiding staying up late and excessive fatigue. Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption also help control gout.
3. Medication: During acute attacks, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or colchicine are commonly used to relieve pain and inflammation. For long-term management, uric acid-lowering medications such as allopurinol or febuxostat tablets are used to maintain serum uric acid levels within the target range.
4. Surgical treatment: If there is significant accumulation of tophi or severe joint damage, surgical intervention may be required. Surgery can remove tophi and perform joint corrective procedures to restore joint function.
