Treating Gout Attacks
Gout attacks are painful and often happen more than once. Taking medications may reduce pain and prevent attacks in the future. There are also some things you can do at home to relieve symptoms.
Medications
Your doctor may prescribe a daily long-term control medication to reduce levels of uric acid. This may help prevent gout attacks. Other medications can help relieve pain and swelling during an attack. Be sure to take your medication as directed.
What You Can Do
Below are some things you can do at home to relieve gout symptoms. Your doctor may have other tips.
Preventing Gout
With a little effort, you may be able to prevent gout attacks in the future. Here are some things you can do:
-
Avoid alcohol and foods that trigger gout.
-
Take any long-term control medications prescribed by your doctor.
-
Lose weight if you need to.
-
Control blood pressure and cholesterol.
-
Drink plenty of water to help flush uric acid from your body.
Publication Source:
Kim KY, Clinical Therapeutics, 25(6), A literature review of the epidemiology and treatment of acute gout, Jun 1, 2003, pp 1593-617
Publication Source:
Saag KG, Mikuls TR, Current Rheumatology Reports, 7(3), Recent advances in the epidemiology of gout, Jun 2005, pp 235-241
Publication Source:
Terkeltraub R, Cecil Medicine, 23rd ed., Crystal deposition diseases, Chapter 294, 2007, pp 2069-2078
Online Medical Reviewer:
Cineas, Sybil MD
Date Last Reviewed:
8/30/2004
Date Last Modified:
5/3/2004