Home Remedies for Gout

Home care can ease a flare and lower the chance of the next one, but it does not replace medical treatment, and it cannot dissolve crystals.

During a flare

• Rest the joint and raise it
• Cold packs wrapped in a cloth for 15 to 20 minutes can ease pain and swelling
• Drink plenty of water
• Avoid alcohol and heavy meals
• Use loose footwear and keep the bedsheet off a painful toe
• Do not massage a hot, swollen joint

Pain relief

Anti-inflammatory tablets and colchicine are used under medical advice. Avoid aspirin for a flare, since it can change uric acid levels. Check with a doctor before using NSAIDs if you have kidney, stomach or heart problems.

Habits between flares

• Keep a healthy weight, with slow weight loss
• Limit alcohol, especially beer
• Cut down on sugary drinks
• Keep well hydrated
• Take any prescribed uric acid medicine regularly

Popular remedies and cautions

• Cherries or cherry juice may help a little, but evidence is limited
• Apple cider vinegar, baking soda and herbal drinks are unproven
• Avoid giving home remedies to children without advice

When to see a doctor

A hot, swollen joint with fever, a first-ever attack, or pain that does not improve in a couple of days needs medical care.

Before your appointment

Carry earlier uric acid and kidney reports, a list of all medicines and supplements, and notes on which joints hurt, when flares started and what you ate or drank beforehand. Tell your doctor about any kidney stones, diabetes, blood pressure or family history of gout.