Treatment: Hemorrhoids are often easily treatable at home. If they are caused by problems such as constipation, treat the underlying cause with stool softeners or laxatives as well as a diet rich in fiber, whole grains and plenty of water. Relieve pain from hemorrhoids with pramoxine ointment, hydrocortisone rectal cream or benzocaine ointment. Soaking the area in warm water can also help with pain and irritation. Hemorrhoids that are extremely painful or not responding to normal treatment may need treatment by a physician. Prevention: The best way to prevent hemorrhoids is to avoid constipation and straining when having a bowel movement. Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables, take fiber supplements, or use stool softeners if needed. Impact on boating: Hemorrhoids may become painful, but they are not life-threatening. Pain is often worse after bowel movements but topical medications, rest and avoiding further constipation and/or straining with bowel movements can provide relief.
G O UT An intensely painful and disabling inflammatory arthritis, gout usually affects a single joint at a time, but more than one joint can be affected simultaneously. It most commonly affects the big toe but can also involve the knees, elbows and other joints. An acute attack of gout usually resolves after a few days to weeks, but it can sometimes be chronic with recurring episodes. Gout develops in people with chronically elevated blood uric acid levels and affects up to 4 percent of adults in the U.S. Men with gout usually develop it between ages 30 and 45, while women usually experience it after age 55. Risk factors include obesity, hypertension, kidney disease, excessive alcohol intake and consumption of significant amounts of meat, seafood and high fructose corn syrup. Travel can also contribute to a flare-up of gout due to changes in diet, dehydration or lack of physical activity. Symptoms: Often occurring overnight, gout attacks are characterized by the
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