If you think you may have gout, do NOT take aspirin. It can make the gout worse by slowing down the excretion of uric acid.
Several other precautions can be taken. Drink 8-10 glasses of water a day. This helps the body get rid of extra uric acid. Stop drinking alcohol. Alcohol makes it more difficult for the body to get rid of uric acid. If you are overweight, see your doctor about a safe weight-loss program. DON’T crash diet, since quick weight loss may bring on gout. Avoid organ meats (liver, kidney, sweetbreads) and other protein-rich foods. Use warm or cold compresses for joint pain. Make a frame to raise bedsheets off any painful joint.
