WORLD GOUT DAY
April 20th is observed as “World Gout Day” each year. Statistics indicate that approximately 177 million people in China suffer from hyperuricemia, with nearly 60% of these patients being young adults aged 18 to 35. Notably, this proportion continues to show an upward trend annually. This raises an important question: How can we effectively prevent and manage hyperuricemia and its associated condition, gout?
Under normal circumstances, the human body maintains a dynamic equilibrium between uric acid production and excretion. However, when the body either produces excessive uric acid or excretes too little, uric acid accumulates in the bloodstream, causing elevated blood uric acid levels and ultimately leading to hyperuricemia.
When the human body remains in a state of hyperuricemia (high uric acid levels) for an extended period, the excessively high concentration of uric acid in the bloodstream gradually forms urate crystals. These crystals circulate through the bloodstream and deposit in joints, soft tissues, kidneys, and other areas. This process triggers an inflammatory response that damages normal tissue structure and function, ultimately leading to gout attacks characterized by symptoms such as joint pain, swelling, and stiffness.
How to maintain stable uric acid levels?
It is evident that maintaining stable uric acid levels and promoting metabolism form the cornerstone of preventing and managing gout. Fluctuations in uric acid levels are closely associated with dietary habits, obesity, lifestyle patterns, and other factors. Therefore, gout prevention can be approached through the following measures:
- Adopt a low-purine dietAvoid high-calorie, high-purine, and high-fructose foods. Opt for fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, high-quality protein sources (e.g., eggs), and lean meats. Control portion sizes and maintain regular meal times.
- Stay HydratedAim to drink 2000-3000 milliliters (ml) of water daily. Adequate hydration increases urine output, promotes uric acid excretion, and helps lower blood uric acid levels.
- Maintain a Healthy WeightObesity is an independent risk factor for hyperuricemia and gout, as it can trigger metabolic disorders, inflammation, and increased uric acid production.
- Engage in Moderate ExerciseAerobic activities such as jogging, brisk walking, swimming, and cycling improve blood circulation and enhance the kidneys’ ability to excrete uric acid.
Red Light Therapy May Effectively Alleviate Gout Symptoms
In addition to maintaining a healthy lifestyle and dietary habits, appropriate physical therapies—such as red light therapy—hold positive significance for reducing gout symptoms, lowering the frequency of flare-ups, and improving quality of life. Clinical studies have indicated that red light, with its strong penetrating ability, enhances local blood circulation, accelerates the transport and metabolism of inflammatory mediators, and reduces the accumulation of inflammatory cells in joint areas. These effects collectively contribute to accelerating recovery and alleviating physical and psychological discomfort in patients.
Red Light Therapy May Aid Nerve Repair and Pain Relief
Furthermore, red light irradiation can stimulate the growth of damaged peripheral nerve axons, accelerate nerve myelination, and promote the repair and regeneration of injured peripheral nerves. Additionally, during the early to middle stages of joint inflammation, local tissues exhibit elevated levels of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), a neurotransmitter that induces pain. Red light irradiation has been shown to effectively reduce 5-HT concentrations, thereby exerting anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.
Phtotherapy Device: Harnessing Red Light for Gout Management
The Huaifei LED phototherapy device, based on red light therapy and utilizing multiple specific wavelengths, generates systemic biological effects. These effects induce local vasodilation, improving blood flow to facilitate the delivery of immune cells, anti-inflammatory substances, and nutrients to joints affected by gout. Enhanced circulation supports tissue repair, inhibits further progression of inflammation, and alleviates the intense pain and discomfort associated with gout attacks.
Gout Prevention: A Growing Priority for Younger Generations
Today, the incidence of gout is increasingly affecting younger populations, making early detection and prevention critical. On this World Gout Day, let us collectively sound the alarm on health vigilance and strengthen our defenses for a healthier future!
