Gout treatment involves both immediate relief during flares and long-term strategies to reduce uric acid levels and prevent future attacks. Below is a practical overview you can discuss with a clinician, plus common lifestyle adjustments that help many people. Direct answer
- During a gout attack: Treat pain and inflammation with anti-inflammatory options (NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or naproxen), colchicine, or corticosteroids if NSAIDs are unsuitable. Ice the affected joint for 15–20 minutes at a time to reduce swelling. Rest and elevate the joint as needed. Avoid aspirin, which can worsen symptoms in some people. If the attack is severe or whether you have kidney disease, ulcers, or other conditions, seek medical care promptly. [Guidance sources reflect standard medical recommendations to reduce inflammation during flares and provide immediate relief mechanisms such as NSAIDs, colchicine, corticosteroids, and icing.]
- Long-term management to lower uric acid and prevent future attacks: Depending on your history, a clinician may prescribe urate-lowering therapy (ULT) to keep uric acid levels below a target (often <6 mg/dL, sometimes <5 mg/d/dL for certain patients). Common options include xanthine oxidase inhibitors (e.g., allopurinol, febuxostat) and, in some cases, uricosuric agents. In parallel, dietary and lifestyle changes are advised to reduce purine intake and promote hydration. The goal is to minimize flare frequency and prevent joint damage. [General guidelines emphasize long-term urate lowering and a combination of medication plus lifestyle changes.]
- Lifestyle and dietary adjustments that support gout control:
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water daily to help the kidneys excrete uric acid. Limit or avoid alcohol, especially beer and sugary drinks. [Water intake guidance aligns with general recommendations for kidney clearance of uric acid.]
* Diet: Limit high-purine foods (red meats, organ meats, certain seafood) and refined carbohydrates; consider reducing added sugars and high-fructose corn syrup. Emphasize low-purine protein sources and more vegetables. [Dietary adjustments are commonly advised as part of urate-lowering strategies.]
* Weight management: If overweight, gradual weight loss can reduce gout risk and improve overall health. [Weight management is frequently recommended alongside urate-lowering therapy.]
* Exercise: Regular, moderate exercise helps with weight control and overall joint health, but avoid intense activity during a flare. [Physical activity is typically recommended as part of a balanced approach.]
* Avoidance of certain triggers: Limit alcohol and foods that may provoke uric acid production, and discuss any medications with your clinician that might affect uric acid levels. [Lifestyle factors influence uric acid management.]
- When to seek urgent care: If you have a sudden severe joint pain with swelling, especially in the big toe, or if you have fever, redness, or signs of infection, seek medical attention promptly. A clinician can determine whether imaging or joint aspiration is needed and adjust treatment accordingly. [Acute gout management emphasizes early assessment and potential need for stronger interventions.]
If you’d like, I can tailor this to your specific situation (e.g., frequency of flares, kidney health, current medications) and summarize evidence-based regimens that your doctor might consider.
