Living with Gout
There it is again—the stabbing pain in your big toe that leaves you feeling helpless. What can you do?
- Make an appointment with your healthcare provider—the sooner the better
- Tell the truth. Be open with your healthcare provider about any medicines you’re currently taking, your diet, alcohol use, etc. Being honest with your healthcare provider will help determine the right treatment to manage your painful gout
- Follow your healthcare provider's instructions
- Rest, rest, rest. As simple as it sounds, this advice is often ignored. Too much activity can cause another attack
- Ice the joint. Your healthcare provider may recommend applying an ice pack. Ask how this should best be applied to avoid causing even more pain to the swollen area
- Follow up with your healthcare provider. Just because the pain may go away in a couple of days doesn't mean you’re cured. Attacks can reoccur and you will want to be prepared
Get tips to help prevent future attacks.