Infrared Saunas and Gout
Many years ago we had a family friend who, on occasion, would disappear for two weeks at a time. When I was younger it was curious however now I realize why he vanished; he suffered from periodic and extremely painful bouts of gout.
Gout is a systemic disease caused by the build-up of uric acid in the joints, causing inflammation, swelling, and blinding pain. One cause is the liver may produce more uric acid than the body can excrete in the urine. Another is a lifestyle problem. This occurs when a person consumes a diet consisting of rich foods such as red meat, cream sauces, nuts, red wine and beer.
This allows more uric acid into the bloodstream than the kidneys can filter. This condition is called hyperuricemia. Over time, the uric acid crystallizes and usually settles in the joint spaces of the big toe or the ankle joint. It can be so painful sufferers say even a light sheet covering the affected area is excruciating.
The signs and symptoms of gout include inflammation, swelling, and tenderness in the joint(s) affected where touching or moving that joint(s) becomes intensely painful. Gout can develop quickly, sometimes unexpectedly, but more often after a meal or two of generally rich food or alcohol.
The most reliable way to diagnose gout is to examine the joint fluid for uric acid crystals. This is done by drawing fluid from the inflamed joint with a needle and examining it under a polarized light microscope. Although the test is invasive the results are conclusive. Once diagnosed treatment can offer quick relief. This involves decreasing the amount of uric acid in the affected joint.
If dietary habits are the cause, the patient’s lifestyle must be changed to avoid further triggering the condition. Also, health practitioners highly recommend the consistent use of Far Infrared sauna therapy.
Stress Reduction to Lower Flare Risk
Stress and poor sleep are well-known gout flare triggers. Because infrared saunas promote relaxation and parasympathetic nervous system activity, many users report fewer flare-ups when using saunas consistently. As always, these benefits should be seen as supportive, not curative.
Granted there are many traditional methods to employ in the prevention of gout. Alcohol and rich foods are the primary contributors to elevated uric acid levels. Some patients do have a genetic predisposition to excessive uric acid production however most gout sufferers have normal kidneys and simply bad dietary habits.
Prevention is the best defense against this disease and learning what the food/alcohol triggers are greatly reduce the chance of another attack. There is a newer method that can also aid in the prevention of gout. Far Infrared sauna therapy actually aids in the breakdown of uric acid crystals along with reducing the acidity levels in the blood. Gout sufferers can find soothing relief using the beneficial effects of Far Infrared sauna therapy.
Far Infrared therapy is gentle and warm as it stimulates blood circulation for improved healing and natural pain relief. The thermal effect of Far Infrared therapy calms acute inflammation of affected joints and tissues, particularly useful for sufferers who are allergic to traditional pain-killers. Regular, gentle exercise is an effective and preventative measure for gout.
Improved Circulation in Affected Joints
FIR saunas gently raise body temperature, which can enhance circulation in joints commonly affected by gout. Improved blood flow may help soothe inflammation and promote tissue recovery—especially valuable between flare-ups when symptoms are less intense.
Far Infrared is also a great way to keep weight under control while you enjoy ‘passive’ exercise. It is still highly recommended maintaining a regular exercise routine, between attacks, to avoid the risk of permanent joint damage.
Somehow find a Far Infrared sauna if you suffer from Gout. The infrared heat has been tested and proof exists that nine out of ten times it immediately relieves pain and mitigates the new flare-up. The sweat tested not only contains up to 20% of undesirable elements it also contains a good deal of uric acid.
Detoxification Through Sweating
Infrared sauna therapy may help the body eliminate small amounts of uric acid through sweat, which some users believe contributes to fewer flare-ups over time. While more research is needed, consistent sauna sessions could support overall detoxification pathways and reduce systemic burden.
Remember to shower right after a Far Infrared sauna – you certainly do not want any of those toxins re-absorbing. Why not at least give Far Infrared a try? You will be pleased to feel relief, without prescription meds, and can continue enjoying your otherwise healthy lifestyle.
Pain Relief and Inflammation Support
While far infrared sauna therapy has not been clinically proven to cure gout or directly break down uric acid crystals, many users report that regular sauna use helps relieve discomfort and reduce stiffness during non-acute phases. FIR’s ability to promote circulation and induce sweating may complement lifestyle changes and medical treatments. However, it should not replace medications prescribed for acute flares, and gout patients should always consult a healthcare provider before relying on alternative therapies.
