You can control gout in two ways: by changing habits to prevent attacks in the first place and by controlling and reducing the severity of attacks when they happen. According to MayoClinic.com, gout can affect anybody, although men are more susceptible. Gout attacks can happen out of the blue or in the middle of the night without warning, so being prepared is important.
Step 1
Stop moving once an attack starts. According to National Health Service, you should try sitting quietly and elevating the affected limb. This will improve circulation and also prevent you from accidentally touching the affected area and causing great pain.
Step 2
Apply ice to the affected joint. Use a first-aid ice pack if you have one or use a soft towel to wrap some ice cubes. You also can use a bag of frozen peas. Don't put ice directly on the skin to avoid burning it.
Step 3
Ask your doctor for a prescription. A number of medications can be used to treat gout and reduce inflammation and pain. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, should be used at the first sign of a gout attack. Other medications available include corticosteroids, colchicines and allopurinol. You should have these medications in hand before the attack happens, to either prevent or stop it at once.
Step 4
Cut down on foods that contain purines. This is basically all animal proteins, including meats, fish, seafood and full-fat dairy. Instead, focus on vegetarian proteins like beans and legumes, including soy.
Step 5
Drink up to 16 cups of water a day. Water will help remove uric acid from your joints, reducing pain and even the chance of an attack, according to MayoClinic.com. Limit alcohol, which makes it difficult to eliminate uric acid. Uric acid is the cause of gout.
