Gout: Spot it fast and stop the next attack

Gout often arrives suddenly — usually at night — with a joint that becomes hot, red and insanely painful. It’s caused by uric acid crystals collecting in a joint, most commonly the big toe, but ankles, knees and wrists can be hit too. If you’ve had one attack, you’re more likely to have another unless you act.

Quick relief for an attack

If you’re in the middle of an attack, aim to reduce inflammation and protect the joint. Over-the-counter ibuprofen or naproxen helps for many people; colchicine and short courses of oral steroids are other common choices but should be used under medical advice. Practical steps you can try right away: rest and raise the joint, apply ice wrapped in a thin cloth for 10–15 minutes, and avoid tight shoes or pressure on the area. Drink water to stay hydrated — it won’t stop the attack immediately but helps overall recovery.

Long-term prevention and diet that works

Preventing gout means lowering uric acid over time and cutting triggers. Doctors often prescribe allopurinol or febuxostat to lower uric acid. Those meds aren’t for pain relief — they reduce how often attacks happen when taken regularly and monitored. A useful target your clinician may aim for is a blood uric acid level under 6 mg/dL.

Diet and habits matter. Cut back on beer, spirits, and sugary sodas — beer is the biggest alcohol trigger. Limit red meat, organ meats, and shellfish. Swap in low-fat dairy, whole grains, and plenty of vegetables. Cherries and coffee have shown links to fewer attacks in some studies, so adding them can help. Losing excess weight and moving more reduce risk too. If you take a diuretic (for blood pressure) or other meds, mention gout to your doctor — some drugs raise uric acid.

Don’t try to self-manage repeats forever. Get a clear plan from your clinician after a first attack: whether to start uric-acid-lowering therapy, when to use colchicine preventively, and how often to check blood levels. If you have fever during an attack, very severe pain, or signs of infection, seek care promptly.

Small changes add up. Hydrate, trim down alcohol and sugary drinks, choose lower-purine proteins, and talk to your doctor about meds if attacks recur. With the right mix of quick relief and long-term steps, most people regain control and spend far fewer nights in pain.