If you’ve just been diagnosed with gout, you might feel overwhelmed and uncertain about the future. While it’s hard to predict exactly what’s ahead, know that once you’ve experienced even one gout attack, there’s a likelihood of experiencing more.
When gout goes untreated, it can develop and become increasingly painful. It is important to understand how to mitigate an acute gout flare and prevent chronic gout attacks. Additionally, it’s imperative to start gout treatment as early as possible to prevent increasing pain and avoid any health conditions that may be associated with long-term, untreated gout.
Medication and Gout Management
Staying consistent with urate-lowering medication, along with any additional pain management medication prescribed by a specialist during treatment, is important for reducing flare frequency, preventing joint damage, and managing gout over time.
Acute Gout Flares and Lifestyle Changes
It is also important to stick with a healthy diet and exercise regularly. While there is not necessarily a “gout diet,” there are certain lifestyle choices that can be beneficial for gout patients. For example, foods that are purine-rich can trigger gout flares. Learn more with our guidance on gout-friendly diet and lifestyle choices to support long-term control.
Acute Gout Flares and Doctor Relationship
Continuing with regular physician monitoring and developing a clear, honest doctor-patient relationship can lead to more personalized care, better tracking of progress, and ongoing adjustments to your treatment plan, all of which will support successful long-term gout management.
Taking Control of Your Gout
These measures are important first steps to keep future flares away and manage the pain that may come with gout.
Looking to better understand your gout? Visit our patient education library for more gout management resources.
Gout Cartoons
Check out this months featured gout cartoons, inked by artist Shaun Boland.
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