Gout - it is one of the most painful conditions that affect many old people. However, the condition may also affect younger individuals. So what is it? Simply put, it is a form of arthritis wherein the joint is swollen, inflamed, and stricken with excruciating pain. The condition is blamed to high concentrations of uric acid in the bloodstream.
But as painful as it is, there are solutions designed to relieve gout-related pain. Yes, you have the option of going to a doctor and get medication. But while waiting for the medication to take effect, here are some quick gout-pain relief solutions you can do at home:
Charcoal/Flaxseed Paste
To make the paste, you will need activated powdered charcoal and ground flaxseeds. Simply mix the two ingredients in the ratio of 2 parts charcoal and 1 part ground flaxseeds. Add warm water to make a workable paste.
Apply the paste generously over the affected area. Then secure the paste by wrapping the affected area with cloth or bandage. This will also prevent the paste from staining your clothes and bed sheets. Reapply the paste at least every four hours.
Heated Castor Oil Pack
You will need a clean piece of cloth, a regular castor oil, a plastic food wrap, and a hot compress. Soak the piece of cloth until in castor oil. Wring out excess so that the cloth is wet but not dripping. Apply the cloth over the affected area.
Secure the cloth in place by wrapping the affected area with food plastic wrap. Then apply hot compress over the area. The hot compress with give you instant relief and will activate the castor oil.
Hot & Cold Soak
You will need two basins. Fill one basin with hot water that you can endure. Also, fill the other basin with cold water that you can endure.
Now what you need to do is soak the affected joint alternately in hot and cold water. Start with the hot water and soak for 3 minutes. Then soak in cold water for 30 seconds and then in hot water again. Complete at least three rounds of alternating.
Epsom Salt Foot Soak
You will need a basin that is big enough to completely immerse both your two feet. Fill the basin with hot water that you can endure and add about a cup of Epsom salt. Make sure that you completely melt the Epsom salt.
Soak your feet in the solution for at least half an hour. Add more hot water once in a while to maintain the temperature throughout the half hour period. You add more Epsom salt as you add more hot water so that the solution does not become diluted.
Cortisone Shots
If all else fails, you might as well get proper medication from a licensed medical practitioner. It is advisable that you visit your doctor and request for a cortisone shot. Of course, your doctor will decide if this is necessary.
