Treatment for gout in the hand joints requires a combination of medication and lifestyle adjustments. Common medications include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), colchicine, and corticosteroids. Simultaneously, it's essential to control diet, drink plenty of water, and avoid high-purine foods. Gout is caused by excessively high uric acid levels, leading to the deposition of urate crystals in the joints, causing inflammation and pain. Long-term hyperuricemia is related to factors such as genetics, diet, and metabolic abnormalities.
1. Drug therapy is key to the acute attack and long-term management of gout. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen can relieve pain and inflammation; colchicine is used during acute attacks to reduce the inflammatory response; glucocorticoids such as prednisone are suitable for patients who cannot tolerate the first two types of drugs. Long-term uric acid-lowering drugs such as allopurinol and febuxostat can reduce uric acid production or promote excretion, preventing recurrence.
2. Dietary adjustments are crucial for controlling uric acid levels. Reduce your intake of high-purine foods, such as organ meats, seafood, and red meat; increase your intake of low-fat dairy products, whole grains, and vegetables; avoid sugary drinks and alcohol, especially beer and spirits. Drinking plenty of water helps dilute uric acid and promotes excretion.
3. Lifestyle changes are equally important for gout management. Maintain a healthy weight and avoid obesity; engage in regular exercise, such as low-intensity activities like walking and swimming, to improve metabolism; avoid overworking joints to reduce the risk of gout attacks. Regularly monitor uric acid levels and adjust treatment plans accordingly.
Treatment for gout in the hand joints requires a comprehensive approach involving medication, diet, and lifestyle adjustments. Long-term management of uric acid levels is key to preventing recurrence. Patients should adhere to regular check-ups and adjust their treatment plans promptly to reduce pain and complications.