Elder Care Mauldin SC

Gout is a type of arthritis that affects many elderly adults.  Gout can cause attacks of pain, stiffness, and swelling, most often in the big toe.  Gout attacks can last for a few days or for several weeks.  If left untreated, these gout attacks can become chronic which can affect an elderly adult’s quality of life.  Fortunately this painful condition can be treated and managed at home with the help of a caregiver or home care aide.  Here are just a few useful tips for elderly adults who are managing their gout symptoms.

• Eat a Healthy Diet

People who are overweight are more susceptible to gout.  So, maintaining a healthy weight is very important for those suffering from gout.  Elderly adults with gout are encouraged to eat a well-rounded blend of healthy foods and foods that are low in fat.  Those with gout should not eat too few calories, however, as a very low-calorie diet can actually trigger a gout attack.  Since gout is associated with high uric acid levels, those with gout should avoid foods and beverages that raise uric acid levels such as alcoholic beverages, meat, and seafood.

• Exercise

Moderate exercise is great for an elderly adult’s overall health and it can also help them to manage gout.  Exercising is a way to keep excess weight off without eating too few calories.

• Know What to do During an Attack

There are a few things elderly adults can do during a gout attack to help control the pain and discomfort.  NSAIDs can be used to relieve inflammation but aspirin should be avoided as it can affect uric acid levels and actually make the attack worse.  These medications should be taken as directed and taken at the first sign of the attack.  A doctor may even prescribe short-term pain medications for elderly adults to take during an attack such as a corticosteroid.  Elderly adults should also rest and elevate the affected joint and apply ice.  It is important to rest the joint during the attack and for 24 hours after the attack.

• Take Prescribed Medications

Elderly adults with gout should take their prescribed medications for gout as they are instructed to.  Taking medications that help lower uric acid levels can help prevent gout attacks if they are taken preventatively.  If they are taken during an attack, however, they could possibly make symptoms worse.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring elderly care services near Greer, SC, contact Heart of the Carolinas Home Care at 864-991-3116.
Providing Home Care Services in Greenville, Simpsonville, Greer, Anderson, Spartanburg, Mauldin, Seneca, Laurens, Charleston, Columbia and the surrounding areas.

Source:  http://www.webmd.com/arthritis/tc/gout-home-treatment

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Edward Harrison

Founder at Heart of the Carolinas

Edward Harrison founded the Heart of the Carolinas Homecare in 2007 when he saw there was a need for caregivers that provide non-medical home care services, at a price that most people could afford. It was standard in the industry to require hourly minimums and it was common to be assigned a caregiver, not matched with one based on your individual personal needs. Edward understood that to make a successful relationship between caregiver and client, skills were not enough, personality and compatibility plays as much a role as do skills.

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