Gout is one of the prominent types of arthritis. It can cause a pain that is quite like osteoarthritis. However, there are a few distinct differences between the two. Gout is predominantly caused by the high buildup of uric acid in the blood. Over time, the uric acid collects in the joints and leads to joint pain and discomfort.

There are a few DIY remedies to manage gout. Let us have a look at it.

Epsom salts
A few people recommend taking a bath of Epsom salts for the prevention of gout flare-ups. Epsom is one of the essential DIY remedies to manage gout. It is rich in magnesium and helps reduce the risk of gout. For this, you can take Epsom salts and add a cup or two of it in your bathing water. Next, soak your entire body or any specific joint for the relief.

Hydrate
For someone who has gout, inflammation and swelling is common. A prominent way to reduce swelling is by consuming a lot of water. Increasing your fluid intake can boost the kidney function. As a result, the kidney releases excess fluid, which lowers the swelling in somebody who has gout. Of course, water is excellent, but you can also consume some clear fluids, such as herbal teas and broths. Further, people with gout must avoid liquids like sodas and alcohol as they have high purine content. If you have kidney disease or congestive heart failure, you must speak to a medical professional before increasing fluid consumption.

Apply ice pack
The affected joint can be relieved by some cold therapy. It can bring in a temporary relief from the gout attack symptoms. This can be an excellent DIY remedy to soothe the pain and reduce inflammation of the joint. For this, you can take a few ice cubes and wrap them in a towel. Then apply this ice pack on the aching joint for about 10 minutes at length. Please note that you should not apply ice directly onto the skin, as it can lead to frostbite. Further, do not let the ice pack pressed onto your skin for over 10 minutes.

Elevating the joints
A gout attack is painful. It can lead to swelling in your ankles, knees, hands, and feet. An effective way to lower the swelling is by elevating the swollen joint. It improves blood circulation. As a result, the fluid quickly moves past the joint and travels back to the heart. This can be used in combination with the ice pack to relieve the gout symptoms.

Consuming cherries
Cherries have excellent antioxidant properties. It helps get rid of all the oxidizing and damaging radicals. Thus, in addition to its incredible taste, cherries also have phenomenal health benefits. Cherries are also a good source of anthocyanin, which reduces symptom flare-up. You should add at least 15 to 20 cherries in your diet to get some relief from the gout symptoms.