Gout is a painful form of arthritis.

Gout is a painful form of arthritis that generally affects men in their mid to late forties. If you have just been diagnosed with this condition, there are some specific steps you can take to combat the painful side effects. Here is exactly what to do...

Step One: Agree On A Pain Medication
If you've been diagnosed with gout, chances are you will have to deal with what is known as a gout attack. Basically, this is your condition flaring up, usually for a 24 to 72 hour period. During an attack, your affected joints will become red, swollen, and painful to the touch.

Make sure you and your doctor agree on what pain medication you should take when this occurs. Determining factors include any other medications you are taking, allergy concerns, cost, and compatibility. Sometimes, an over the counter pain medication is sufficient, but individual circumstances vary.

Step Two: Analyze Your Diet
Most people become afflicted with this condition due to poor dietary habits and lack of exercise. Examine your current diet closely and honestly. If it is high in fat, it is undoubtedly a contributing factor.

The best foods to combat your condition are fruit, vegetables, and protein from lean meat sources. Cherries in particular are known for their effectiveness in helping alleviate gout, but studies show their effect is different from one person to another. Regardless, add fresh fruits and vegetables to your diet while reducing fat. Gravy, for example, is one of the worst known foods that aggravate the condition, so avoid it all together.

Step Two: Analyze Your Exercise HabitsThe percentage of those who are diagnosed with gout who also lead a sedentary lifestyle is close to 100%. To control your condition, it is imperative you introduce an exercise regimen to your daily routine.

Start with walking. Walking even one mile per day will have significant positive effects. Ideally, you should incorporate cardiovascular, stretching, and strength training workouts in an effort to become more fit and improve your circulation and overall health.

Being overweight is another negative factor. Obviously, exercise and diet changes will help you lose weight. The key is to experience some small victories, like a loss of your first five pounds. This will help your motivation level and support you in your desire to change eating and exercise habits.

Step Three: Be RealisticWhen most people are diagnosed with gout, they expect a medication or pill to be the ultimate cure. We are here to tell you, there is no miracle cure. You can not eliminate the condition, but you can effectively control it. This will take specific effort on your part.

Many people effectively control the condition and no longer suffer painful attacks. This is because they have introduced positive lifestyle changes and maintained a level of consistency.