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Gout, the most common form of inflammatory arthritis, can wreak havoc on the body. The good news? It’s easily managed with the right help. Whether you’ve been recently diagnosed, care for someone suffering, or are a medical professional treating the disease, the Kicking Gout in the Acid podcast can help you learn more.
For the last episode of this season of Kicking Gout in the Acid, Dr. Larry Edwards is joined by Gary Ho, a gout sufferer turned advocate. Gary has lived with gout for more than 30 years, taking his experience with the disease and forming the Gout Support Group of America, a partner organization to the Gout Education Society under the Alliance for Gout Awareness group. The two discuss Gary’s experience living with gout, how to be an advocate for yourself, and what living with the disease under control looks like.
Key Takeaways:
- Living with gout carries frustrating stigmas and myths alongside pain in the joints; many with gout see the disease as embarrassing and self-inflicted. In reality, the disease is underpinned by genetics and is the most common form of inflammatory arthritis.
- It’s important to find your voice: If you don’t think you’re getting the level of care needed for your gout, find a second opinion. Those with gout need proactive care, that is, receiving care that reduces uric acid levels in the body.
- Gout doesn’t have to stop you from living your life. Maintaining one’s uric acid levels to less than 6.0 mg/dL allows those with the disease to enjoy their favorite foods and beverages in moderation.
- If you have gout, you don’t need to suffer alone. Find support through the Gout Support Group of America, the Gout Education Society and other organizations.
Start your journey with gout today via the Gout Education Society website and sign up for the monthly newsletter.
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Looking for nearby gout specialists? Find rheumatologists, nephrologists and more via the Gout Specialists Network.
Educational Materials:
Kicking Gout in the Acid is sponsored by Sobi.