There are a number of steps you can take to reduce the pain and swelling of the gout attack.
- Raise and rest your limb for example you shouldn't do vigorous physical exercise. Sometimes a splint is used to immobilise the joint.
- Keep your joint cool and don't cover it. Apply ice or a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a towel to your joint for about 20 minutes to help reduce swelling. You shouldn't apply ice directly to your skin as it can damage your skin. If you need to repeat this, let the affected part return to normal temperature first.
Medicines
There are also medicines that your GP can prescribe to help ease the pain and swelling of acute attacks of gout. These can also prevent further attacks and complications. You should start treatment as soon as possible and keep taking the medicine for a couple of days after you feel better.
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as naproxen (eg Arthroxen) may relieve pain and inflammation. If you have a heart condition, high blood pressure, kidney disease, lung disease or if you are over 65, these drugs may be harmful so you should talk to your GP about taking them.
- If NSAIDs aren't suitable for you, colchicine is an alternative. It works by reducing the build-up of urate. But many people who take it have side-effects such as feeling sick, vomiting and/or diarrhoea.
- Steroid tablets are occasionally prescribed if you can't take NSAIDs or colchicines.
- Steroid injections are sometimes used for large joints (such as the knee).
