Gout symptoms such as pain and swelling might make it difficult to get a good night’s sleep. Gout occurs due to the buildup of uric acid crystals in your joints, resulting in excruciating joint pain that can strike at any time, especially at night. Flares are the most common sleep concern among gout patients, as the pain and discomfort can disrupt sleep and lower sleep quality.
Gout pain, however, is most common at night. According to one study, the gout attack risk was 2.4 times higher at nighttime than during the day. Flares can appear and last anywhere from a few days to a week or more. Your joint may swell, redden, and become painful to the touch.
Why Do Gout Attacks Happen Late At Night?
Gout episodes could be more likely at night for a variety of reasons. The decline in body temperature is one of the most typical causes. While it’s only a slight difference, dozing lowers your body temperature. Uric acid crystals can accumulate in the joints as a result of the decline, causing pain to appear suddenly.
Breathing slows down as you sleep, so your lungs don’t exhale as much CO2 as when you’re awake. The excess carbon dioxide might cause your blood to become more acidic, triggering the creation of uric acid.
Gout And Sleep: What To Do If You’re Having Trouble Sleeping?
Talk to your doctor about taking medications that can help in lowering uric acid levels. This can help you sleep better with gout attacks.
Here are a few more options to consider with your doctor for gout treatment and enjoy a good night’s sleep.
Cold Compress
A cold compress or ice pack can help to reduce inflammation and relieve discomfort during a flare-up. If you don’t have that, wrap a frozen water bottle in a towel and apply it to the painful area. Applying cold to the affected region can be much more effective than heat in alleviating joint pain in a clinical investigation.
General Pain Relief
Anti-inflammatory steroids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be used to treat gout flares. Stay away from aspirin, which can raise the levels of uric acid in your body.
Rest
Rest is very important for gout sufferers. Elevate the injured joint with a cushion or a bunched-up blanket to assist minimize swelling.
