Could the medieval cure of bloodletting be a treatment for gout? But some researchers now believe bloodletting may ease symptoms, by lowering inflammation and levels of uric acid, a known cause of gout. Uric acid is produced by the body when it breaks down purines, compounds that occur naturally in the body but are also found in red meat, some seafood and shellfish. High blood levels of uric acid lead urate crystals to form in the joints, causing intense pain and swelling. ‘Bloodletting is both effective and safe in treating gout and can especially ease acute severe pain and reduce CRP inflammatory levels in patients, with a lower risk of evoking adverse reactions,’ the researchers say.

Source: The Nation January 18, 2022 11:02 UTC