Swelling in the Feet Due to Uric Acid? Relieve it with Ice Compress and Other Natural Methods

Kapanlagi.com - Swelling in the feet due to uric acid can occur suddenly and feel very painful, especially in the joints such as the toes, knees, and ankles. This condition is caused by the accumulation of uric acid levels in the body that forms sharp crystals in the joints and triggers inflammation. If not handled properly, this condition can disrupt daily activities and lower the quality of life.

Quoting Ciputra Hospital, handling swelling in the feet due to uric acid does not always have to involve medications, but can also be done with self-care techniques such as compressing the swollen area, managing stress, and regular exercise. Each treatment method should be done consistently so that symptoms subside quickly and do not recur.

Here is a complete explanation of the causes of swelling in the feet due to uric acid and the medical and natural steps to gradually and safely relieve it, summarized by Liputan6, Thursday (27/3).

1. How to Reduce Swelling in the Legs Due to High Uric Acid with Ice

• Wrap Ice with a Cloth

Do not place ice directly on the skin. Use a cloth or thin towel to avoid irritation or frostbite.

• Compress for 15--20 Minutes

Apply to the painful area without pressing too hard. Do this for 15--20 minutes to help relieve pain and swelling.

• Repeat Several Times a Day

Apply the compress several times a day with a break of 1--2 hours for more effective results in reducing inflammation.

Using a walking aid can help reduce pressure on the inflamed joints, thereby decreasing pain and facilitating movement. Additionally, when resting, it is advisable to elevate the feet higher than the chest to reduce swelling, prevent fluid buildup, and improve blood circulation for faster recovery.

2. Consuming Certain Types of Food to Relieve Uric Acid

Consuming foods with low purine levels is an important step to lower uric acid levels in the body and prevent swelling in the joints. Fruits rich in vitamin C such as strawberries and oranges, as well as vegetables like broccoli and spinach that are low in purine, can help naturally balance uric acid levels.

In addition, patients are advised to avoid consuming organ meats, seafood, red meat, as well as high-sugar drinks and alcohol. These foods have high purine content and are very risky for spikes in uric acid levels.

3. Regular Exercise Can Maintain Ideal Body Weight

Regular exercise helps the body control body weight, thereby reducing the burden on the leg joints and not worsening the inflammatory condition caused by uric acid. Patients are advised to choose low-intensity exercises such as walking, yoga, swimming, or stretching exercises that do not put excessive pressure on the joints.

Regular physical activity can also improve blood circulation and help the body manage the production and excretion of uric acid more effectively.

4. Performing Self-Relaxation to Reduce Pain

Self-relaxation can be done using various techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or listening to calming music aimed at relaxing the body and reducing the stress response to pain.

Protecting painful joints with supports or avoiding heavy activities is also a form of preventive care to prevent swelling from worsening. This care is long-term and helps maintain the psychological condition of gout sufferers so they are not affected by recurring pain.

5. Managing Stress to Avoid Gout Recurrence

Chronic stress can trigger the production of hormones that worsen inflammation and contribute to increased levels of uric acid in the blood. Stress management such as getting enough sleep, pursuing hobbies, or engaging in light exercise is very helpful in maintaining hormonal balance and the body's immunity.

By avoiding excessive stress, sufferers can reduce the frequency of gout attacks and keep their bodies in optimal condition.

6. Surgical Operation as an Option if Symptoms Do Not Improve

Surgery becomes the last option if symptoms such as swelling and pain in the legs due to uric acid do not improve after conservative treatment. Medical actions include the removal of hardened uric acid crystals in the joints (tophi), the removal of infected lumps, or even joint replacement if the damage is severe.

This step is taken with careful consideration from the specialist and is generally recommended for patients with chronic gout who do not respond to medications.

7. Common Causes of Uric Acid According to Medical Science

• Consumption of foods and drinks high in purines: Foods and drinks such as organ meats, shellfish, red meat, and alcohol are the main causes of increased uric acid levels in the body.
• Overweight or obesity: Being overweight can slow down the excretion of uric acid by the kidneys and increase the production of uric acid from the body’s metabolism.
• Emergence of certain diseases: Several diseases such as kidney disorders, hypertension, diabetes, and thyroid issues are also known to worsen the control of uric acid in the body.
• Effects of certain medications: The impact of consuming medications such as diuretics, low-dose aspirin, and chemotherapy drugs can interfere with uric acid excretion, worsening symptoms.

8. Questions and Answers About Swollen Feet Due to Uric Acid (People Also Ask)

1. What causes swollen feet due to uric acid?

The accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints causes inflammation that triggers swelling, pain, and redness.

2. How can I quickly reduce swelling due to uric acid?

Ice compress, elevate the feet, take pain relievers, and avoid direct pressure on the joints.

3. Can exercise help reduce uric acid?

Yes, regular light exercise helps lower weight and increases uric acid excretion.

4. What foods should be avoided when uric acid flares up?

Organ meats, seafood, red meat, alcoholic beverages, and sugary drinks should be avoided.

5. When is surgery needed to address uric acid?

Surgery is performed if lumps or pain do not subside with regular treatment or if there is joint damage.

(kpl/frr)