Gout Treatment: 5 Approaches Your Doctor May Recommend

Gout treatment usually involves medications like allopurinol and probenecid, along with dietary adjustments and lifestyle changes such as limiting alcohol consumption. These measures help relieve symptoms and keep uric acid levels under control.

Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis that often appears suddenly and can cause intense pain during flare-ups due to the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. It is more common in people with elevated uric acid levels in the blood.

Seeing a rheumatologist or primary care doctor is important for proper management, as this helps prevent new flare-ups and complications such as joint deformities or kidney problems.

Treatment options for gout

The treatment that your doctor may recommend to manage gout can includes:

1. Medications for gout

The main medications used for a gout flare, also called acute gout, include:

• Anti-inflammatory drugs such as naproxen, ketoprofen, ibuprofen, or indomethacin: these are among the most effective options for easing symptoms, especially within the first 48 hours of a flare. They are typically prescribed for 5 to 7 days.

• Corticosteroids such as prednisone or prednisolone: these also work as anti-inflammatories and may be prescribed as oral tablets, intramuscular injections, or injections directly into the affected joint.

After symptoms improve, doctors may recommend long-term medications such as allopurinol or probenecid to help prevent future flare-ups by lowering uric acid levels in the blood.

There are also newer options, such as febuxostat and pegloticase, which strongly reduce uric acid production and may be considered in certain cases of gout treatment.

2. Diet for gout

A gout diet involves avoiding foods that can trigger flare-ups, such as seafood, sardines, excess red meat, organ meats, and poultry skin, especially when uric acid levels are high.

It is also important to follow a balanced, healthy diet to reduce the risk of overweight or obesity, which can worsen gout. Working with a dietitian is often recommended to help manage diet effectively.

3. Lifestyle changes

Effective gout treatment should also include lifestyle changes such as:

• Drinking more water daily to stay hydrated and help the body eliminate uric acid through urine

• Avoiding excessive alcohol intake, especially beer, which can raise uric acid levels

• Exercising regularly, particularly if weight loss is needed

When combined with medical treatment and dietary adjustments, these lifestyle habits can make it easier to keep uric acid levels under control.

4. Weight loss

If overweight or obesity is present, gout treatment should also focus on weight management. This includes following a healthy, balanced diet and exercising regularly. Weight loss helps lower uric acid levels and reduces the risk of flare-ups.

5. Regular medical follow-up

Regular checkups with a doctor are important, especially in the first few months after a gout flare, to confirm that the treatment is effective and to monitor uric acid levels in the blood. Following medical guidance closely is essential to prevent complications.