Gout is treated with medications, dietary and lifestyle modifications.
Gout medications include medications to treat the acute inflammation during a gout flare and ongoing treatment to lower the blood uric acid level.
Treatment for acute gout attacks includes NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), colchicine and steroids. In a severe gout attack, your doctor may prescribe a combination of medications.
Ongoing treatment to control gout in the long term aims to lower the blood uric acid level and dissolve the urate crystals. Allopurinol, which reduces the production of uric acid, is often used. Febuxostat, a newer drug also blocks the production of uric acid. Probenecid helps the kidneys to remove uric acid. These drugs need to be taken long term in order to control the uric acid level and prevent further acute attacks. Your doctor can advise you on the medication you need.
Limiting the intake of foods that are high in purine may be helpful. Foods that are high in purine, such as beef, liver, kidneys, and sardine should be avoided, and daily intake of protein-rich food like red meat should be limited. Avoid drinks high in sugar and fructose. It is essential to seek advice from a dietician for complete details.
Overweight and obese patients need to go on a supervised weight loss programme. However, fasting and crash diets are not recommended as they aggravate the condition.
Surgery is rarely used to treat gout. It is sometimes required when there is a need to remove infected tophi or tophi that interferes with joint movement. Tophi tend to recur unless hyperuricaemia (high uric acid in the blood) is treated.
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