Superbowl parties have gout attack triggers everywhere. In fact, you are likely to get your first gout attack this Tuesday, just two days after Superbowl Sunday.
Never had gout before? Well, here’s your chance. Here’s what you need to know to help you survive this year’s big game, and hopefully keep you off the injured reserve list.
What does a gout attack feel like?
A gout attack is an extremely painful, swollen joint – most often in the big toe joint – that comes on quickly. It is caused by a build-up of sharp uric acid crystals in the blood.
A gout attack can be found in other parts of the foot too, – such as the heel or ankle. It is also possible to have a gout attack in your hands or elbows.
Gout Attacks Both Men and Women
Anybody can get a gout attack. Some people are more likely to get a gout attack than others – but nobody is immune.
Men get gout twice as often as women, but women don’t get off scot-free. Women can have a gout attack, too.
Gout Attacks usually happen 2 to 3 days after the Superbowl
Most people come down with a gout attack a few days after a big party, barbecue, or event. After the Superbowl, the most likely time is Tuesday or Wednesday.
What Gout Attack Triggers are at Superbowl Parties?
Many foods at Superbowl parties are gout attack triggers, especially when eaten in large quantities. How many of these gout attack triggers will you be eating during the Superbowl this Sunday?
- Meat, such as bacon, burgers, ribs, and chicken wings
- Seafood, such as shrimp, scallops, and anchovies
- Deli meat, such as pepperoni, salami, turkey, or roast beef
- Meatballs, such as a meatball sub or meatball pizza
- Mushrooms, such as a mushroom pizza
- Beans, such as bean dip
- Beer
- Regular soda
Put it all together and what have you got? A recipe for the perfect storm – a gout attack.
But I have never had a gout attack before
Everybody who has gout today, never had gout before their first gout attack. Why look for trouble.
Isn’t Gout Hereditary?
If someone in your family has gout, then you are more likely to get gout, too – but, if you don’t have any relatives with gout, that doesn’t mean it can’t happen to you.
What Superbowl foods are less likely to trigger a gout attack?
- Pizza – topped with cheese, onions and peppers, broccoli, and garlic
- Nachos with cheese and jalapenos, guacamole, and sour cream
- Peanuts, and other nuts
- Pretzels and Potato Chips
- Cheese cubes
- Salad and/or Fruit
- Ice cream
- Chocolate
- Diet soda, tea, and coffee
See? It doesn’t sound hopeless.
If you do wake up with a stiff, swollen big toe joint next week and are worried that the pain you’re feeling may be gout, contact Dr. David Schlam immediately at (845) 298-9074 so you can begin treatment.
By David Schlam
