pythorlh's Journal: Ouch, Ouch, Ouch.

Why is it that just before Thanksgiving, I get a flare-up of Gout? I could easily understand just after Thanksgiving, but just before? Anyway, I'm in pain, and can barely walk. It's in my right ankle at the moment. Working today (and covering for others), so can't get to the doctor's until next week. I just left a message to see if they'll call in a prescription for me.
I know that ankles are not prime candidates for gout. My doctor will probably insist on an xray, to prove I haven't hurt my ankle for real. Just like last time. I know how this goes. I spend a couple days with a sore ankle or toe, thinking I stubbed/twisted it without noticing at some point. Then, generally the third day, but sometimes up to a week later, BOOM! Searing, throbbing pain, and I can't put weight on it. Today it's so bad that I got out an old crutch to use so I could get myself to work.

Another question... Why, when I know this is the pattern, do I always spend a couple days thinking that it's just a random injury? I did actually decide last night that this was probably gout, so I made sure to drink extra liquids and such, but this morning it's still worse, not better.

Anyone know any good folk remedies for gout?

Gout treatments

[Ethelred Unraed]

Gout symptoms are basically caused by a buildup of excess uric acid in your joints. Eating certain kinds of fruit, especially fresh berries (strawberries and blueberries), and celery may help somewhat; so will drinking lots of water. Cutting back on meats is also a good idea (eating meats tend to increase uric acid production in the body).

Cutting back not only on meat, but also anything that dehydrates you, is a good idea as well. Alcohol, coffee, cola drinks (especially with artificial sweeteners) and so

Re:

[pythorlh]

Yup. Avoid meats. Which is why having it come just before Thanksgiving is especially annoying. I particularly like turkey liver, and liver is especially bad for gout. I'd heard of berries, but they're hard to get at the moment. Celery is new to me. And of course... liquids. I avoid colas, but do drink Mt. Dew. Not sure where that is on the help/hurt scale, but I have noticed in the past that weeks when I don't have a Dew supply at work (which means I drink less than I normally would) have a tendency

Re:

[Ethelred Unraed]

Mountain Dew and black tea also dehydrate. ;-)

Water and juice would be my suggestions, especially apple juice. You might be able to get frozen berry juice or something along those lines.

Good luck -- sorry you're hurtin'.

Cheers,

Ethelred