High uric acid levels are synonymous with gout
High uric acid levels in the blood are an important risk factor for gout, but not everyone with high uric acid gets sick. Gout occurs when urate crystals form and deposit in the joints, triggering an inflammatory reaction.
Therefore, controlling uric acid at an appropriate level can help reduce the risk of gout attacks, but increased blood uric acid does not mean that you have gout.
Not eating meat can prevent gout
Because the diet is related to uric acid levels, many people believe that just completely abstaining from meat and eating vegetables can prevent gout. However, this is not a reasonable way to control the disease.
Excessive abstinence for a long time can cause the body to lack protein, fat and many essential nutrients, leading to nutritional imbalance. People at risk or suffering from gout should build a diverse diet, control the amount of purine-rich foods instead of completely eliminating a group of foods.
No gout attacks, no need for medication
Gout is a chronic disease and can progress silently between acute episodes. No more pain or no gout attack does not mean that uric acid levels have been controlled.
In cases where doctors prescribe treatment for hypouricemia, patients need to use medication according to instructions and have regular check-ups. Self-treatment when symptoms are over can cause uric acid to increase again, increasing the risk of recurrence and related complications.
Uric acid decreases as quickly as possible
Many people are eager to reduce uric acid to a low level in a short time, so they arbitrarily increase the dose of medication. However, gout treatment needs to be performed in stages and under the supervision of a doctor.
Changing medication or dosage incorrectly can increase the risk of acute gout attacks. Therefore, patients should not adjust their dosage themselves but need to follow the treatment regimen and monitor their uric acid levels periodically.
The more you exercise, the more it helps reduce uric acid
Regular exercise is beneficial for health and supports weight control, thereby contributing to controlling risk factors related to gout. However, overtraining, especially when the body is dehydrated, is not a way to quickly eliminate uric acid.
People with gout should prioritize light to moderate-intensity physical activities, suitable for their physical condition. Need to drink enough water before, during and after exercise, and avoid overexertion, especially during acute gout attacks.
