Can People with Gout Go Swimming?

Swimming for Gout Patients: A Case-by-Case Assessment

Whether gout patients can engage in swimming depends on their specific condition. If they are in an acute attack phase, swimming is not recommended; however, during the intermission or chronic remission phase, swimming can be undertaken moderately.

Swimming Inadvisable:

For gout patients in an acute attack phase, due to the presence of redness, swelling, heat, and pain in the joints, engaging in swimming may exacerbate the discomfort and hinder recovery. Therefore, swimming is not advised during this stage.

Swimming Advisable:

During the intermission and chronic remission phases of gout, when there are generally no pronounced clinical manifestations, patients may participate in swimming moderately. This can help strengthen their physique and boost immunity. Nevertheless, swimming sessions should not be overly prolonged, and the water and indoor temperatures should be well-regulated to prevent cold exposure that could trigger acute gout attacks. It's essential to maintain a balanced diet rich in low-purine foods like eggs, milk, apples, bananas, etc., and avoid high-purine foods such as animal organs and seafood. Adequate rest, ensuring sufficient sleep, and minimizing late nights are also crucial. Additionally, engaging in moderate physical activities like slow walking, brisk walking, or practicing Tai Chi can promote metabolism and facilitate recovery.