What can I do to manage my gout symptoms?

Gout attacks and symptoms are painful, but also treatable. This means, however, that in order to reduce the risk of an attack and to manage symptoms, several lifestyle changes must be made. If you are prone to attacks, be sure to always watch what you eat. Foods that are high in purines (a chemical that is already found naturally in your body) such as red meat and fish have been associated with triggering these attacks.

Alcohol has also been known to trigger gout. For this reason, be careful to manage your alcohol intake. Beer has proven itself as the most common offender in this category, while moderate consumption of wine has been “hit-or-miss” as a trigger.

It is important to rest the joint that is painful while having an attack. However, mild exercise will help to strengthen the joint and the surrounding tissue, all while helping to also control your weight.