# What should I do during an acute gout attack? Canonical page: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-to-do-during-an-acute-gout-attack Language: en Category: orthopedics Publisher: ClinicsJo Published: 2026-09-13T17:52:52.609Z Content updated: 2026-09-13T17:52:52.609Z Translation (ar): https://clinicsjo.com/ar/faq/what-to-do-during-an-acute-gout-attack During an acute gout attack, the primary goal is to relieve pain and inflammation quickly. This can be achieved using medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, colchicine, or corticosteroids, which can be administered orally or injected. It is important to consult a physician to determine the most appropriate treatment for your condition, as the choice depends on the symptoms and the cause of the gout [\[1\]](). Gout attacks are a common type of inflammatory arthritis that cause pain, swelling, and redness in one or more joints, often beginning in the big toe or lower extremities. An untreated gout attack typically lasts from one to two weeks, and subsequent attacks may last longer if the disease remains untreated. This duration does not mean you should delay evaluation or forego prescribed treatment [\[4\]](). ## Effective Medications for Relieving a Gout Attack Several medication options are available to relieve pain and inflammation associated with acute gout attacks: - **Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs):** Such as ibuprofen; these medications help reduce pain and inflammation [\[1\]](). - **Colchicine:** An anti-inflammatory medication that can be particularly effective if taken at the first signs of an attack [\[1\]](). - **Corticosteroids:** Can be given orally or injected directly into the affected joint to reduce severe inflammation and pain [\[1\]](). Always consult a healthcare provider before taking any medication to determine the appropriate dosage and to ensure there are no contraindications. ## Lifestyle Adjustments During and After an Attack In addition to medication, certain lifestyle adjustments can help manage a gout attack and reduce the risk of recurrence: - **Rest:** Resting the affected joint and elevating the limb can help reduce pain and swelling [\[4\]](). - **Applying Cold Compresses:** Applying cold compresses, such as an ice pack or a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a towel, to the inflamed joint for up to 20 minutes at a time may provide some relief [\[4\]](). - **Avoid Foods Rich in Purines:** During and after an attack, it is recommended to avoid foods high in purines, such as red meat, organ meats, certain seafood, beverages sweetened with fructose, and alcohol [\[3\]](). - **Drink Plenty of Fluids:** It is recommended to drink plenty of water, unless otherwise advised by your doctor due to other health conditions such as kidney or heart disease [\[4\]](). - **Avoid Pressure on the Joint:** Try to keep bed covers off the affected joint at night to avoid worsening pain [\[4\]](). ## When Should You See a Doctor? If you are experiencing an acute gout attack, it is essential to see a doctor to properly diagnose the condition and receive appropriate treatment. Gout symptoms can resemble other conditions such as pseudogout, which is caused by the accumulation of calcium pyrophosphate crystals rather than uric acid [\[1\]](). Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can prevent attacks from worsening and reduce the risk of long-term complications such as tophi (uric acid deposits under the skin) or kidney stones [\[3\]](). Seek an urgent appointment with a doctor or seek help from emergency services if you have sudden pain and swelling in a joint, the pain is worsening, you also have a high fever (or feel hot, cold, or have chills), and you feel nauseous or are unable to eat. These symptoms may indicate an infection within the joint and require urgent medical attention [\[4\]](). For more information on gout and how to manage it in the long term, you can visit the page: [Gout: Acute Joint Pain Associated with Uric Acid and Treatment (Arabic)](). ## Preventing Future Attacks After controlling an acute attack, treatment focuses on preventing future episodes. This may include lifestyle changes such as weight loss, limiting alcohol consumption, and avoiding purine-rich foods [\[1\]](). In some cases, a doctor may prescribe medications to lower blood uric acid levels to prevent crystal formation [\[1\]](). With early diagnosis, treatment, and lifestyle adjustments, gout can be significantly managed, helping many people avoid attacks or reduce the severity of their symptoms [\[3\]](). ## Medical references - [Gout]() - [Gout]() - [Gout - NHS]() General health education; not a substitute for individualized clinical assessment. Citation URL: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-to-do-during-an-acute-gout-attack#answer