5 Supplements You Shouldn't Take for Arthritis, According to Experts

From eatingwell.com

Supplements might seem like a good strategy for joint pain. But in many cases, they may do more harm than good 

When you’re living with arthritis, supplements might seem like a good pain management strategy. But they aren’t always the answer for joint pain and inflammation. While supplements might seem like a quick fix, not all of them deliver the benefits they claim to. And some may even pose health risks.

If you or a loved one have arthritis, here’s what you need to know about which supplements to avoid, plus proven strategies to provide relief.

5 Supplements You Shouldn’t Take for Arthritis

1. Glucosamine

According to the Arthritis Foundation, glucosamine is one of the most popular supplements for managing arthritic joint pain. Glucosamine is a naturally occurring compound in the body that builds cartilage and helps cushion joints.

However, despite glucosamine’s popularity, research reveals mixed results regarding its benefits. And a recent body of evidence shows that combining glucosamine with exercise provides no significant relief for knee osteoarthritis over exercise alone.

There’s another potential downside to this supplement. “Glucosamine supplements can interact with certain medications, particularly blood thinners like warfarin,” says Melissa Mitri, M.S., RD, a Connecticut-based dietitian and owner of Melissa Mitri Nutrition. “Moreover, they can cause side effects such as diarrhoea, constipation, abdominal pain and even allergic reactions in some individuals.”

2. Chondroitin

Chondroitin is a natural part of cartilage that has long been used to treat arthritis. However, the American College of Rheumatology cautions against using chondroitin for treating knee or hip arthritis, although it may be effective for arthritis of the hand.

Trouble is, it’s not safe for everyone. “Studies have shown inconsistent results, and chondroitin may worsen asthma symptoms, affect blood sugar levels and interfere with blood clotting,” says Angel Luk, RD, a registered dietitian and co-founder of Food Mysteries. “Its lack of solid scientific backing and potential risks make it a less favourable option for arthritis patients.”

3. Red Yeast Rice

Red yeast rice is touted for its potential anti-inflammatory benefits. However, rheumatologists question its safety. “The use of red yeast rice can lead to side effects such as muscle pain and weakness,” says Zeba Faroqui, M.D., a rheumatologist based in Levittown, New York.  “In some cases, it has been associated with more severe issues like liver injury and rhabdomyolysis, a condition causing severe muscle pain.” In addition, it can interact with medications used for inflammatory arthritis, such as methotrexate and azathioprine, she says.

4. Chaparral

Chaparral, derived from the creosote bush, has been used in traditional medicine for various health conditions, from skin rashes to cancer. However, taking chaparral could jeopardize your liver health.

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Chaparral. In: LiverTox: Clinical and Research Information on Drug-Induced Liver Injury; 2022.

 “Chaparral has been linked to liver damage, with over two dozen reported cases of liver injury,” says Mitri. “The risk of severe liver complications outweighs any potential benefits, making it a risky choice for arthritis management.”

5. Arnica

Arnica is a traditional pain relief herb that is available in topical forms like creams and gels. While some research supports its topical use, oral consumption may be harmful. “Oral arnica can lead to nausea, dizziness and more severe complications like heart palpitations,” says Mitri. “Its benefits are limited, and the risks associated with oral use make it unsuitable for treating arthritis.”

Tips for Managing Arthritis

If you’re trying to manage arthritis-related pain, there are some supplements that may be helpful. However, many may be harmful.

A safer, more effective strategy is a comprehensive lifestyle approach. That starts with exercise, physical therapy and medication if prescribed. Certain foods may also help. For instance, leafy greens, berries, walnuts and fatty fish like salmon, mackerel and sardines are among the best foods for joint health.   

Also, consider keeping a food and symptom journal. “Tracking your food intake and symptoms can help you identify foods that may trigger arthritis flare-ups and help you make healthier dietary choices,” says Mitri.

The Bottom Line

Managing arthritis symptoms can be tricky, especially when some supplements offer more risk than relief. Products like glucosamine, chondroitin, red yeast rice, chaparral and arnica can cause adverse effects and often lack solid scientific support. Instead of relying on supplements, focus on a healthy diet that’s rich in anti-inflammatory plant foods and omega-3-rich fish. And don’t forget exercise. It’s an excellent way to keep those joints strong, flexible and pain-free!

https://www.eatingwell.com/supplements-you-shouldnt-take-for-arthritis-8718160

Arthritis: What to do when your big toe causes big problems

From eu.lansingstatejournal.com

Hallux rigidus, also known as big toe arthritis, is the most common arthritis found in the foot. In fact, it’s so common that it’s likely either you or someone you know will suffer from this type of arthritis at some point in their life.

While there are a couple of reasons you may develop arthritis in your big toe ─ like genetics, a previous injury, or poor foot alignment from a bunion or having flat feet ─ the most common reason is just normal wear and tear that our feet endure over a lifetime. 

Certain conditions that cause inflammation like rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and autoimmune disorders, can also increase your chances of developing arthritis in your big toe.

“Once you have any pain inside a joint that won’t go away and you can’t explain, it’s time to seek treatment,” said Karl Dunn, DPM, a podiatrist with Compass Orthopaedics who performs surgery at McLaren Greater Lansing.

Pain is a chief complaint when patients visit Dr. Dunn in the office; however, patients can also experience swelling around the joint, a bump, and stiffness in the big toe with the inability to bend it.

“I will see patients in my office for a physical exam, and then we typically do an X-ray to get a good look at the toe joint and the cartilage around it,” said Dr. Dunn. “There are many things that we can do to make it feel better and prolong the need for surgery.”

Most people think that if they visit a podiatrist or orthopaedic surgeon, surgery is the only answer. However, in reality, there are many different options that can be explored before surgery, including injections, over-the-counter medicines, changes in shoe gear, and orthotics.

“If we have exhausted all of the nonsurgical treatments and you are still experiencing pain and other symptoms, then it might be time for surgery,” said Dr. Dunn. “There are many surgical options that are now available for patients who are experiencing arthritis in their big toe.”

Some of these surgical options include:

Cheilectomy ─ where the surgeon will shave down any bone spurs to give your joint better movement. Osteotomy ─ where your surgeon will cut your toe bones to realign or shorten your affected big toe. Arthroplasty ─ a joint replacement. Arthrodesis ─ a joint fusion.

“For forefoot surgery, which includes the front of the foot and toes, most patients are non-weight bearing for two weeks after the surgery and then in a boot or shoe for four weeks,” said Dr. Dunn.

If you have pain in your big toe, talk to your doctor. You may be experiencing arthritis in your big toe, and the earlier you seek treatment, the more likely you are to be able to manage the symptoms with non-surgical options.

https://eu.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sponsor-story/mclaren-greater-lansing/2024/09/27/arthritis-what-to-do-when-your-big-toe-causes-big-problems/75377518007/

Arthritis sufferers warned over eating two fruits that could make symptoms worse

From manchestereveningnews.co.uk

Diet can play a key role in managing the painful symptoms of arthritis, with certain foods acting as "pain triggers", according to the Physicians Committee

Arthritis sufferers have been warned that eating two everyday fruits could worsen their condition.

Symptoms of arthritis include pain, stiffness, swelling, inflammation and limited movement. Although the condition has no known cure, symptoms can be managed - including through diet. According to the Physicians Committee, certain foods act as "pain triggers".

Its report stated: "While genetic factors are important, studies show that lifestyle factors, including diet, play a role. If you have rheumatoid arthritis, a diet change could help you, and perhaps even eliminate your pain entirely. In research studies, many people who cut out certain trigger foods find that their pain improves or goes away.

"When those foods are gone, so is the inflammation. A survey of more than 1,000 arthritis patients revealed that red meat, sugar, fat, salt, caffeine and nightshade plants most commonly worsen the condition."

Both apples and tomatoes contain solanine, a glycoalkaloid poison found mainly in species of the nightshade family. A study published in the Arab Journal of Nuclear Sciences and Applications in 2013 explored the link between solanine and arthritis.

The report stated: "Solanine is a toxic compound produced in nightshades family such as potato, tomato and eggplant when exposed to light. The current study was carried out on 18 female postmenopausal albino rats to investigate the effect of solanine on the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.

"The data of the present study showed that old age and postmenopausal suffering from arthritis and joint swelling must eliminate or avoid the nightshades plants to alleviate the joint pain and also decrease the destruction of the tissues."

The claims have been disputed, however. According to the Arthritis Foundation, the debate over nightshade fruits and vegetables' link to worsening rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis has 'sparked debates for decades'.

"People who feel worse after eating them clearly think they can," the foundation says. "Many doctors say that’s hooey. There’s little scientific evidence on either side, but a lot to be said for lived experience."

The foundation adds that, if you suspect you may be sensitive to nightshades, don’t eat them for two weeks, then slowly introduce them back into your diet, allowing about three days between each one.

“If these foods seem to increase your symptoms, avoid them and substitute other sources of key nutrients,” says Lona Sandon, PhD, associate professor of clinical nutrition at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Centre in Dallas.

People can be sensitive to many foods, and anecdotally, a lot of people are sensitive to nightshades, the foundation concludes.

https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/health/arthritis-sufferers-warned-over-eating-30006638 

"I used to joke about arthritic hips – until I got a pair myself"

From afr.com

By Mark Mulligan

I was at a schoolmate’s 60th birthday weekend this year when another of the old gang commented on how fit I looked.

“Thanks,” I said before spoiling the moment with an update on creeping osteoarthritis of my left hip.

“Look at us oldies going on about our failing bodies,” he quipped.

I concurred: “Yes, we’ve become the people we used to joke about.”

Talk about karma. What I now know is that losing hip mobility is no laughing matter. It affects your every move, right down to putting on shoes and socks, and curtails the sort of pursuits – in my case, surfing and snowboarding – that make life worth living.

Last year, nearly 60,000 Australians submitted to the scalpel for hip-joint replacement surgery, according to the Australian Orthopaedic Association

Wave of regret

Had I not been so delusional about my immortality 10 years ago, I might have acted on the early signals of bone joint deterioration.

I vividly remember sitting in the line-up at a beach break on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast in 2013, puzzled at the sudden effort required to straddle my, admittedly wide, mid-sized surfboard.

At the time, I put it down to lack of stretching and a sedentary work life, two factors I’ve belatedly been able to address but were still a long way from the core problem.

Aches, pains and cramps intensified with time, and I gradually noticed I could no longer stride out or run.

But it wasn’t until 2022, when sharp nerve pain on the balls of my feet sent me to what would be the first of many leg-related therapy sessions, that it became obvious my old joints and bones were failing me.

By now, I could only lie on my board to wait for a wave, and struggled to stay upright in any case.

A podiatrist made me notice that my left foot, instead of facing more or less forward, was skewed hard to the left and that my arches were collapsing.

While we worked out what would become a long-term plan to address that pain and degeneration, he suggested a worn-out hip – otherwise known as osteoarthritis – might be the source of the problem.

And while months of podiatric treatment and daily calf stretches helped alleviate the foot pain, they also brought into relief aches further up around the knee and thigh.

These intensified to the point where I had my GP refer me to a physiotherapist.

His muscle-strengthening routines helped correct my failing balance and stability, and even helped with the pain for a while, but it was now becoming evident that hip replacement surgery was becoming a “when” rather than an “if”.

Getting hip to ageing

It was an osteopath who finally forced me to face reality. “Your left hip is f---ed,” he declared unceremoniously after a series of flexibility tests. “And your right hip isn’t far behind.”

In case there were doubts, an x-ray soon after confirmed “severe osteoarthritis ... on both sides with complete obliteration of the joint space on the left”.

As I now contemplate hip replacement surgery – delayed for a year because my old health insurance policy didn’t cover the procedure – my only consolation is that my story is not unique.

Last year, nearly 60,000 Australians submitted to the scalpel for that particular surgery, according to the Australian Orthopaedic Association.

Philip Markham, an orthopaedic surgeon from the NSW Central Coast, says my case is “not an atypical story”.

“And I’ve had patients much younger than you, in their 40s, who come see me with the same condition,” he tells The Australian Financial Review.

“There was a guy recently who had years of stiff hips, but he was a keen soccer player. He didn’t want to give that up, so he’s just had both hips done, one after the other, and he’s going back to playing soccer next year. So he’s a success story in that respect.”

At the other end of the age spectrum, Markham enjoyed some fame in 2019 when he operated on Australia’s oldest hip replacement patient.

Daphne Keith was 107 when she underwent emergency hip hemiarthroplasty – removing the ball of the joint and replacing it with an artificial one and metal stem – at Wollongong Hospital after she fell and fractured the neck of her femur bone.

Avoiding surgery

Surgery always carries risks – in this case infection, misalignment and dislocation to name a few – and the danger of something going wrong can be greater when the patient is overweight of suffers osteoporosis.

According to a report in The New York Times, a survey in the US last year found less than half of orthopaedic surgeons said they would operate on a hip replacement candidate with a body-mass index (BMI) above 40. As the patient BMI climbs, the percentage of surgeons prepared to operate drops sharply.

Of course, the loss of mobility inherent in lower body joint degradation can work against weight control to the point where surgery is off the table for good.

For less complicated cases like mine, pain management and gentle but regular activity are key for those in no rush to undergo surgery. Indeed, some medical practitioners argue that even the most obvious hip-replacement candidates should look more closely at alternatives before booking an operation.

One such is physiotherapist Jason Madz, who played rugby union for the Waratahs, who says a combination of exercise and a “psychosocial” reset – where you change your thinking about chronic pain – can sometimes be enough to manage the discomfort of osteoarthritis and even eliminate the need for surgery.

“If you’ve given in to the prescription of all the experts who say you’re going to have a joint replacement, then you’ll end up getting a joint replacement,” he says.

Madz advocates the “Good Life with osteoArthritis: Denmark” (GLA:D) program specifically for people with knee or hip joint degradation. Consisting of two, one-hour sessions a week for at least six weeks, the program, developed in Denmark, is aimed at building muscle strength, joint stability and movement quality to widen the space in worn-out joints and so alleviate pain and improve alignment and flexibility.

Anti-inflammatory drugs, along with alternative, often controversial, treatments such as platelet-rich plasma injections supposed to repair damaged cartilage, tendons, ligaments and muscles also come up in conversations with specialists.

And then there are non-professionals like my old mate, the one celebrating the aforementioned 60th birthday. A former surfing buddy and now dedicated snow hound – but one who can afford to chase powder runs around the world – he had no time for my tales of remedial therapy, citing successful operations on other friends.

His advice: “Don’t muck around, mate, just get a new hip!”

https://www.afr.com/life-and-luxury/health-and-wellness/i-used-to-joke-about-arthritic-hips-until-i-got-a-pair-myself-20240826-p5k5er

Arthritis Can Flare Up in Colder Weather: Tips to Easing the Pain

From healthday.com

An arthritis sufferer’s joints start to get ornery when the weather turns colder, getting stiff and achy as the mercury drops.

Cold weather doesn’t cause arthritis, but it can make it worse, experts say.

"Our joints operate best in temperate weather," said Dr. Mariko Ishimori, interim director at the Cedars-Sinai Division of Rheumatology in Los Angeles. "When the weather gets cooler, the synovial fluid that acts like motor oil in our joints becomes more like sludge."

Frigid temperatures also can increase a person’s pain sensitivity, slow their blood circulation, and promote muscle spasms, the Arthritis Foundation says.

And if that weren’t enough, your joints detect and respond to changes in air pressure that accompany weather fronts.

                                                                                              Adobe Stock

"A drop in barometric pressure can cause muscles and tendons to expand, which can put more stress on an already crowded joint," Ishimori said in a Cedars Sinai news release. "When your joint cap expands, you can feel that."

But there are some simple steps that people with arthritis can take to protect themselves against joint pain caused by cold weather, experts say.

• Stay warm. Wear hats, gloves and scarves, and use heating pads and blankets to keep warm while napping. A hot bath also can soothe stiff joints.

• Get moving. Exercise can keep joints loose, boost energy and release a flood of feel-good hormones. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise weekly, including two rounds of strength training.

• Stretch. Be sure to stretch your muscles regularly, especially prior to exercise. Roll the wrists and ankles, do some knee bends, and stretch out the fingers and hands.

• Eat healthy. A good diet can help reduce inflammation and boost the immune system, as well as strengthening bones. Be sure to get enough omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce inflammation, as well as bone-strengthening vitamin D.

• Maintain a healthy weight. The more weight a person carries, the more pressure placed on bones, joints and tissues. Dropping some pounds can help reduce pain and stiffness.

• Tread carefully. A simple fall can cause lasting pain, and a person’s sense of balance can be altered by arthritis-damaged joints. Take your time while walking, and wear proper footwear.

These recommendations will vary between people. Ishimori recommends that each person explore how cold weather affects their joints, then pursue the lifestyle changes most apt to make them feel better.

"There's a lot we can do to ease joint pain and stiffness," Ishimori said. "You don't need to suffer in silence."

https://www.healthday.com/a-to-z-health/pain-management/arthritis-can-flare-up-in-colder-weather-tips-to-easing-the-pan 

Is There a Link Between Psoriatic Arthritis and Gluten?

From healthcentral.com

Some evidence suggests that this protein found in wheat may trigger symptoms in psoriatic disease. We asked the experts for the bottom line

When you live with psoriatic arthritis (PsA), you’re always on the lookout for things that might trigger symptoms, including the foods you eat. With gluten increasingly in the news for its contribution to various health issues, it’s natural to wonder whether a gluten-free diet might help your psoriatic arthritis symptoms.

There is much to be discovered about the exact link between psoriatic disease and gluten, but research suggests a connection exists. In one study, researchers showed psoriasis patients (psoriasis is often the precursor to psoriatic arthritis) are more than twice as likely as the general population to be diagnosed with celiac disease, a condition triggered by gluten intolerance, compared to matched controls.

And according to the Journal of Investigative Dermatology, individuals with celiac disease are at an increased risk of psoriasis. “The connection is not well understood, but both conditions exert their effects through the actions of inflammatory mediators,” says Susan Goodman, M.D., rheumatologist at Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City.

Let’s take a closer look at what that means.

Is Gluten Bad for Psoriatic Arthritis?

“I would not recommend a gluten elimination for people with psoriatic arthritis right off the bat—there is no evidence showing that gluten directly impacts the disease,” say Ashley Baumohl, R.D., a registered dietitian at Northwell Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City.

Baumohl says that diet does play an important role in easing symptoms with psoriatic arthritis, but usually, weight management and inflammation reduction are the primary focus of nutrition interventions. “Focusing on plant-based foods rich in fibre, antioxidants, and polyphenols can reduce oxidative stress on the body,” says Baumohl. Incorporating healthy fats from oily fish, nuts, seeds, and olive oil can have an anti-inflammatory benefit and may lead to a reduction in inflammatory markers we see elevated in arthritis, she says.

On the other hand, if you know you have celiac disease, gluten may be off-limits. “For patients who have celiac disease or gluten sensitivities, having gluten may trigger psoriatic activity,” Baumohl explains, adding that while gluten is not known to cause psoriatic arthritis, “if you feel better after eliminating gluten, it could be indicative of a co-occurring digestive disorder” such as gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

What Is Celiac Disease?

Gluten is a protein found in foods containing wheat, barley, or rye. Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition in which your immune system is triggered by gluten consumption. This reaction damages your small intestine’s lining and prevents it from absorbing nutrients. Celiac disease is estimated to affect 1% of the populations of Europe and North America, but that number jumps up to 10% if you have a first-degree relative, such as a parent or child, who has it, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

This family connection is associated with a recognizable gene mutation (HLA-DQ2 or HLA-DQ8). However, not everyone with that gene mutation will develop celiac disease and not everyone with celiac disease has that gene mutation.

Are People With Celiac More Likely to Get Psoriatic Arthritis?

According to Dr. Goodman, there is a two-way relationship between both conditions. “There is an increase in other autoimmune diseases in patients with psoriatic arthritis,” she says. “Patients with celiac disease are more likely to get psoriasis, and patients with psoriatic arthritis are more likely to get celiac disease.” However, one condition doesn’t cause the other. “While some people with psoriatic arthritis report improvement in their symptoms if they eliminate gluten, there is no evidence that gluten can cause psoriatic arthritis,” Dr. Goodman adds.

Are People With Psoriatic Arthritis More Likely to Get Celiac Disease?

As noted, the relationship between celiac and PsA goes both ways, with each increasing the likelihood of the other. “Since patients with psoriatic disease are known to have an increased risk for other autoimmune diseases, it is not surprising that they are at increased risk for celiac disease,” Dr. Goodman says.

“Looking at large databases including both Kaiser Permanente and an Israeli database, patients with psoriasis are two- to three-fold more likely to have celiac disease than those without psoriasis,” she says.

However, Dr. Goodman says that there isn’t one consensus on how closely the conditions are linked. “The findings are not consistent and other studies have not confirmed these associations,” she explains. “As celiac disease and spondyloarthritis, including psoriatic arthritis, are more common in northern European populations, the differences in study results may reflect the differences in populations studied.”

Following a Gluten-Free Diet 

If you’re curious to discover whether reducing or eliminating gluten from your diet might help your psoriatic arthritis symptoms, the National Celiac Association provides sample recipes on their site that match a gluten-free lifestyle:

Breakfast

Today there are many more packaged gluten-free meals available at the grocery store or your favourite restaurant. The National Celiac Association recommends gluten-free muffins, pancakes or crepes, scrambled eggs, hash browns, or a French toast casserole to start your day.

There are plenty of whole foods that are gluten-free as well: Consider eggs, fresh berries (or any raw fruit), and plain yogurt.

Lunch

From a gluten-free sloppy joe mix to taco salad, the National Celiac Association has a variety of lunch ideas to keep you rolling through your day. If sandwiches are more your jam for lunch, there are dozens of gluten-free bread recipes here and of course most grocery stores carry at least one type of gluten-free bread (don’t forget to check the frozen section).

If you aren’t sure if your favourite lunch meat is gluten-free, you can check this website for more information. Looking for vegetarian lunch ideas that are also gluten free? You can find recipes and ideas here.

Snacks

Cottage cheese and fruit, celery and peanut butter, and apples dipped in plain yogurt are all healthy gluten-free snack options. If you are traveling, there are many grab and go healthy snack options that are also gluten-free. It’s easy to find protein bars including Aloha Bars, Perfect Bars, and Kind Breakfast Bars that are gluten free. If you want to put together your own snack for on the go, Betty Crocker provides a variety of ideas and recipes to make at home.

Dinner

As long as you omit foods containing wheat, barley, or rye, your dinner will be gluten-free. That means shrimp and broccoli, chicken with greens beans, and steak served with a baked potato are all fair game. Some sauces may contain gluten, so when in doubt, choose foods that are unprocessed and served without extra dressings.

Talk to Your Doctor

While psoriatic arthritis is considered a joint condition, it’s important that you discuss any gastrointestinal (GI) issues with your rheumatologist. “GI symptoms may be medication-related or may be related to Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, in addition to the possibility of celiac,” says Dr. Goodman. You won’t know for sure what’s going on until you check in with your provider, who may suggests various tests to figure out what’s going on.

https://www.healthcentral.com/condition/psoriatic-arthritis/gluten-and-psoriatic-arthritis-link

Gout, a painful form of arthritis, is on the rise. Avoiding red meat and alcohol can help.

From yahoo.com 

Gout sounds like a disease that shouldn’t exist anymore, especially since it’s referred to as the “disease of kings” because of its connection to royal leaders like Henry VIII, who lived with the condition due to overindulging in food and alcohol. However, this ancient condition is on the rise across the globe.

A recent study found a rise in the incidence (the number of new cases) and prevalence (the number of existing cases) of gout from 1990 to 2019. Increases in gout were most significant in the U.S., Canada and Australia for both men and women. Researchers noted that reasons for the increase include obesity, insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, hypertension and renal diseases.

“Gout is a common type of arthritis that can be extremely painful,” Dr. Tochi Iroku-Malize, board chair of the American Academy of Family Physicians, tells Yahoo Life. “Symptoms include swelling and pain in joints like your feet, ankles, wrists, and elbows.”

What causes gout?

The condition is caused by a build-up of uric acid in the body. Uric acid forms when the body breaks down purines, a chemical compound that cells use to form DNA and RNA. Meat and meat products contain purines.

Uric acid forms crystals around joints in the body, most commonly in the big toe or knee, but can be found in any joint. When this occurs, the affected joint results in severe pain, swelling and redness.

“These crystals do not belong in the joints and when there is something found where it doesn’t belong, especially in tight spaces, the area gets inflamed and painful,” Dr. Eric Ascher, family medicine physician at Northwell Lenox Hill Hospital, tells Yahoo Life. “Even a bedsheet over the area infected could cause someone a large deal of pain and discomfort.”

Who is at risk for having gout?

There are some factors that make people more predisposed to the condition than others. While anyone can get gout — including in very rare cases, children — people between 40 and 60 years old are more likely to have the condition. Gout most often affects middle-aged and older men. In fact, men are three to 10 times more likely to have gout than women.

However, younger men and women of all ages can have gout. In the last 20 years, gout has more than doubled among women, affecting more than 3 million, but the symptoms may be different. Rather than a sudden occurrence in the big toe, gout may affect women slowly over time in several joints like the knees, wrists, fingertips and toes — areas that may already be affected by osteoarthritis, according to the Arthritis Foundation.

“While men develop gout more often than women, women are more likely to develop gout after menopause,” says Iroku-Malize.

This is due to the drop in oestrogen in perimenopause. “Less oestrogen means more uric acid,” Amanda Dewees, a family nurse practitioner at Norton Mobile Primary Care, tells Yahoo Life.

One study published in the journal Arthritis Research & Therapy, found that earlier menopause and a shorter reproductive span were associated with a high risk of gout.

Certain racial and ethnic minority groups are also at higher risk of having gout, including Asians, who are two times more likely to have gout than white people.

“Gout is genetic and can run in families,” says Iroku-Malize.

How is gout treated and prevented?

A doctor can diagnose gout by examining the joints and looking for a pattern of swelling. “We will also look for uric acid crystals either in your joints or through a blood test,” says Iroku-Malize.

Medications that can help treat symptoms of pain and swelling include over-the-counter or prescription varieties. Colchicine can also help manage pain from gout when taken immediately after symptoms occur, and corticosteroids can help with inflammation, swelling and pain. Doctors may also prescribe a medication to treat elevated uric acid.

Practicing certain lifestyle habits can help lower the risk of having gout and prevent future flare-ups. “First, it’s important to limit or avoid foods that are rich in purines as is possible depending on your cultural background, family cuisine or current nutrition needs,” says Iroku-Malize.

Foods to avoid include:

• Red meat, such as beef, lamb, pork and bacon

• Organ meat, such as liver and sweetbreads

• Alcohol, especially red wine and beer

• Shellfish, such as shrimp and scallops

• High-fructose corn syrups, such as those found in sugary beverages

Ascher recommends eating bananas since “high potassium, low purines, will actually help reduce uric acid levels,” he says. Consuming coffee, dairy and eggs in moderation can also lower uric acid levels.

Staying well-hydrated is also helpful. “Lots of water can help flush uric acid from your body,” says Iroku-Malize.

The National Institutes of Health recommends the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) eating plan, especially for people with high blood pressure and gout because it can help lower blood pressure and urate levels and thus prevent gout flares. The plan includes:

• Lots of vegetables, fruits and whole grains

• Eating low-fat or fat-free dairy products, poultry and oils

• Keeping foods high in saturated fats to a minimum

• Limiting foods and drinks with sugar in them

In addition to changing eating habits, an active lifestyle can reduce stress and pressure on joints and decrease risk of developing gout.

“I highly recommend getting daily exercise, such as a 30-minute walk to reduce flare-ups. Being overweight increases the risk of gout, so maintaining a healthy weight can help lower the risk,” says Dewees.

https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/gout-a-painful-form-of-arthritis-is-on-the-rise-avoiding-red-meat-and-alcohol-can-help-191134483.html