How to Reduce Swelling in Feet Caused by High Uric Acid? What Are the Solutions?
High uric acid levels are caused by abnormal purine metabolism in the body. When uric acid levels are elevated, it is crucial to take timely and effective measures for treatment. High uric acid can lead to pain and swelling in the feet, significantly affecting daily life and work. When uric acid causes swelling in the feet, it is necessary to promptly reduce the swelling. If left untreated, the swelling may worsen and eventually develop into gout, posing a serious threat to health. Managing uric acid levels and reducing swelling in the feet is a matter of great concern.
Here are some methods for reducing swelling caused by high uric acid levels:
1. Medication for Swelling Reduction
The reason for swelling in the feet due to high uric acid is the formation of urate crystals in the joints of the feet, leading to gout attacks. If the swelling is mild and accompanied by pain, it may be due to inflammatory infection caused by gout. Medication can help reduce swelling and relieve pain. It is important to consult a doctor for the first gout attack and obtain medication. Since anti-gout drugs can have certain side effects, it is essential to consult a doctor and take the medication under their guidance. Avoid self-medication.
2. Hot Compress for Swelling Reduction
Hot compress can also provide some relief for swelling in the feet caused by high uric acid, although its effect is relatively small. It can be conveniently used in emergency situations. Apply a hot towel to the swollen area of the foot for 15-20 minutes. The hot compress can help dissolve and reduce the size of urate crystals in the swollen area, thereby relieving pain and swelling.
3. Massage for Swelling Reduction
When uric acid levels are high and the feet are swollen, urate crystals have accumulated in the joints of the feet. To eliminate the swelling and pain, it is necessary to expel or at least move the urate crystals from their original positions. Massaging the pericardium meridian can help restore the heart's function and deliver blood to the joints, enabling the movement and even expulsion of uric acid crystals, thereby relieving foot swelling. Massage techniques include:
3.1 Start by massaging Kunlun, then Danchong, Neiguan, and other acupoints along the pericardium meridian. Finally, tap the gallbladder meridian.
3.2 Massage the spleen meridian on the lower leg, along with the Fuliu acupoint on the kidney meridian, to relieve the burden on the liver and achieve liver nourishment.
3.3 It is also recommended to press Taichong acupoint and massage from Taichong to Xingjian acupoint to help eliminate toxins from the body.
4. Moxibustion for Swelling Reduction
Moxibustion can also be used to reduce swelling caused by high uric acid levels. In moxibustion treatment for gout, the focus is on applying heat to painful and swollen areas. This can warm the meridians, dispel coldness, accelerate the dissolution of urate crystals, and relieve gout symptoms. For moxibustion, hold a lit moxa stick and aim it at the swollen area of the foot, maintaining a distance of 1.5-3cm from the skin. Adjust the distance to ensure a comfortable and warm sensation. Perform moxibustion once daily, each session lasting 3-5 minutes.
