Rest the affected joint
Elevate the joint
Apply ice packs for 15–20 minutes at a time
Drink plenty of water
Avoid alcohol
Avoid sugary drinks
Avoid red meat
Avoid organ meats
Avoid shellfish
Avoid high-fructose foods and drinks
Take an NSAID if you can safely use one
Take colchicine if prescribed
Take corticosteroids if prescribed
Continue any prescribed gout medication as directed
Contact a doctor promptly for severe pain, fever, or a hot swollen joint
Seek urgent care if you cannot bear weight or the joint looks infected
