Gout occurs when the body builds up too much uric acid. This acid is a by-product from when the body breaks down purines found in foods.
Making some dietary changes can help a person reduce their purine levels and the likelihood of having a gout flare.
Home remedies for gout include:
1. Drinking plenty of water
When a person has gout, they can experience significant swelling and inflammation. One of the ways to reduce swelling is by drinking more water.
Increasing fluid consumption can kick-start a person’s kidneys to release excess fluid, which can reduce swelling in a person with gout.
Water is best, but other clear fluids, such as broths and herbal teas are also good choices. People should avoid alcohol and sodas, which are high in purines.
However, anyone with congestive heart failure or kidney disease should talk to their doctor before increasing their fluid intake.
2. Applying ice to affected joints
Applying a cloth-covered ice pack to the joint can help reduce gout-related inflammation.
Try applying an ice pack wrapped in a thin towel for 10–15 minutes at a time to help relieve pain.
If gout is affecting the feet, a person can also use a pack of frozen vegetables covered with a washcloth, as this may drape more easily over the feet.
3. Reducing stress
Heightened stress can worsen a person’s gout symptoms. While it is not always possible to eliminate all sources of stress, the following tips might help:
- exercising, such as taking a brief walk, if the pain does not limit movement
- asking for time off from work
- journaling or reading a favorite book
- listening to music
- meditating
Getting enough rest can also help a person feel less stressed.
4. Elevating the affected joints
Gout can cause pain and swelling, especially in the feet, hands, knees, and ankles.
One way to reduce swelling is by elevating the affected joints. This encourages blood and fluid to move away from the joint and back toward the heart.
A person can also use an ice-pack in combination with elevation to reduce their gout symptoms.
5. Taking over-the-counter pain relievers
While over-the-counter (OTC) anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen (Advil) and naproxen sodium (Aleve), may not be “natural,” they are excellent options for treating pain and discomfort due to gout.
People should never take more than the recommended dose and always ask a doctor about whether OTC medicines might interfere with their other medications.
If OTC pain-relievers do not help, ask a doctor about stronger prescription medications.
