Gout is a serious kind of arthritis more common among senior men than women. This is the most painful kind of arthritis that comes with swelling, heat, tenderness and stiffness in the joints. Gout forms if crystallized uric acid is deposited into the joints. In turn, it causes inflammatory arthritis in the joints. The condition can last from a few days to many weeks. In the elderly, gout can become very severe that it leads to deformities. The following are some facts about gout and the importance of elder care for sufferers.
- Factors That Affect People Who May Develop Gout
- Family history- People with a family member who suffers from gout are also likely to have it.
- Weight-Overweight people are at risk of gout because of an increase in uric acid production.
- Medications- Niacin, diuretics, medicines that have salicylate like aspirin, Levodopa, Cyclosporine can cause gout.
- Alcohol consumption- Taking too much alcohol can interfere with the ability of the body to eliminate uric acid.
- Health conditions- Health issues like hypothyroidism, psoriasis, renal insufficiency, hemolytic anemia, high blood pressure or certain kinds of cancer can also increase the risk.
- Where Gout Strikes
The big toe is the most common area of the body impacted by gout. However, the condition also affects the wrists, hand, elbow, knee and ankle. When the joints swell the skin will become sensitive, tight and purple or red in color. Usually, gout does not get diagnosed until the sufferer needs medical help to manage the pain.
- Gout Treatment
Gout treatment is focused on relieving pain quickly as well as preventing future attacks and long-term complications like kidney damage and joint destruction. It is likely for a physician to prescribe medications and explain the steps your elderly loved one can take at home in order to prevent future attacks.
- The Role of Home Care
Home care plays a significant role to control joint damage and prevent future attacks. Home care for seniors with gout includes:
- Using hot and cold therapy in the affected area
- Elevating the affected joint while in bed
- Taking the over the counter or prescribed medication for pain relief
- Drinking about 10 glasses of water per day
- Integrating a moderate and low fat diet
- Limiting intake of alcohol
People who develop gout can be treated and continue to live their life productively. When a person experiences the symptoms of gout or has concerns it’s important to talk with a doctor. Additionally, it can be helpful to think about home care services offered by a reputable non-medical home care agency in Framingham MA like Angelic Love Home Care to help in controlling the symptoms of gout.
How do you handle your loved one’s gout? Share your stories to us at the comments below.