Gout occurs when uric acid builds up in the joints, causing inflammation and pain. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, gout can often be controlled by making lifestyle changes and without the need for medication. More acute cases might require medical intervention, however. If you're taking medication, it's important to do so as soon as you notice the first signs of a gout attack, which might include extreme joint pain, reddening and swelling of the joints and fever.
Step 1
Talk to your doctor about medication. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, the most common drugs used to treat gout are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Discuss the pros and cons with your doctor before accepting a prescription. NSAIDs can cause serious side effects, including stomach bleeding and ulceration.
Step 2
Lose weight. According to the CDC, being overweight increases your risk of having a gout attack. To lose weight, make changes in your diet and exercise habits rather than trying a quick extreme diet. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends exercising at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week, avoiding refined foods, eating lean meats and reducing alcohol consumption.
Step 3
Eliminate foods that contain purine from your diet. The more purine you consume, the more uric acid your body will produce. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, foods high in purine include beef, organ meats, anchovies and mackerel, shellfish, and sweetbreads. Yeast is also high in purine, so try to avoid wheat and raised breads in general.
Step 4
Take supplements. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends omega-3 fatty acids and Methylsulfonylmethane to help control inflammation, vitamin C to help reduce the incidence of gout attacks and the herb bromelain for both pain and inflammation. If you're taking NSAIDs, you can try acidophilus to protect your gastrointestinal systems. Always talk to your doctor before taking any supplements, especially if you're taking prescription medications.
