GOUT

Gout: how to ease an attack fast and prevent future flare-ups

Article written and reviewed by a pharmacist graduated from the Faculty of Paris.

Quick note: gout is a sudden inflammatory arthritis caused by uric acid crystals. It often hits the big toe, but also the ankle, knee, wrist or elbow.

A gout flare can be extremely painful, with redness, warmth and swelling. Your goal is to calm the flare and lower the risk of recurrence with lifestyle measures and medical follow-up.

1) Reusable cold pack (acute flare)

Cold therapy helps reduce pain and inflammation. Use 10–15 minutes at a time, several times daily (wrap in cloth).

👉 Reusable ice pack (see product)

2) Cooling pain relief gel (sensitive area)

A cooling gel can be a practical add-on when you can’t use ice packs during the day.

👉 Cooling joint pain gel (see product)

3) Tart cherry extract (prevention support)

Tart cherry extract is commonly used as part of a prevention routine over several weeks.

👉 Tart cherry extract (see product)

4) Light ankle support (return to walking)

After the worst pain settles, a light support can help you walk more safely (avoid overly tight compression).

👉 Light ankle brace (see product)

5) Marked water bottle (daily hydration)

Hydration supports uric acid management. Aim for steady water intake across the day.

👉 Time-marked water bottle (see product)

Prevention basics

  • Hydrate consistently (especially in hot weather / exercise).
  • Alcohol (especially beer and spirits) often triggers flares.
  • Diet: limit organ meats, processed meats, and excessive red meat; watch seafood binges.
  • Weight: gradual weight loss can reduce flare frequency (avoid crash diets).
  • Medical follow-up: recurrent gout may require long-term urate-lowering therapy.

When to seek urgent care

  • Fever, chills, or feeling very unwell
  • Severe hot swollen joint (rule out infection)
  • Symptoms lasting > 72 hours despite measures
  • Very frequent attacks or multiple joints involved

FAQ – Gout

Is gout the same as osteoarthritis?
No. Osteoarthritis is mainly mechanical; gout is inflammatory due to urate crystals.

Heat or ice?
During a gout flare, ice/cold is usually more helpful than heat.

Can lifestyle alone prevent it?
Lifestyle helps a lot, but recurrent gout may need prescription prevention—never stop it without medical advice.

Conclusion

Gout is manageable with cold therapy and rest during flares, plus daily prevention (hydration, diet, and proper medical follow-up). The goal: fewer attacks and better mobility.

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