A gout flare can cause intense pain and disrupt your daily activities. In addition to prescribed medication, there are several safe and easy natural remedies you can try at home—such as drinking more water, applying a cold compress, reducing stress, and consuming lemon juice. These simple methods may help relieve inflammation and prevent future flare-ups.
Contents
Various Natural Remedies for Gout You Can Try
Here are several natural remedies that may help:
1. Drink Plenty of Water
Gout can cause swelling and inflammation. Dehydration may also trigger flare-ups, so maintaining adequate hydration helps reduce the risk. According to the Arthritis Foundation, drinking enough water supports the kidneys in removing excess fluids and flushing out uric acid from the body.
During a gout attack, it is recommended to drink up to 16 glasses of water a day. However, individuals with heart failure or kidney disease should consult a doctor before increasing fluid intake. Water is the best option, while clear broth and herbal tea are also acceptable. Avoid alcohol and purine-rich sodas.
2. Apply a Cold Compress to the Affected Joint
Applying an ice pack wrapped in cloth to inflamed joints can help reduce swelling. Place a cold compress for 20 minutes to relieve pain.
3. Reduce Stress
Stress can worsen gout symptoms. Helpful strategies include light exercise (if possible), taking short breaks from work, journaling, reading, meditation, or spending time outdoors. Getting enough rest is also essential for managing stress.
4. Elevate the Affected Area
Gout often affects the feet, hands, knees, or ankles. Elevating the painful area may help reduce swelling by allowing fluid to flow back toward the heart. Combine this with a cold compress for better results. This technique is part of the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation).
5. Eat a Balanced, Nutritious Diet
A healthy diet with minimally processed foods can help lower uric acid levels. Dietary patterns such as the Mediterranean diet or DASH diet are considered beneficial for individuals with gout.
6. Limit Alcohol Consumption
Excessive or frequent alcohol intake can increase the risk of gout. Beer, in particular, contains high levels of purines and should be avoided by individuals with gout.
7. Avoid High-Purine Meats
Some meats and fish contain high levels of purines that can trigger flare-ups. Foods to avoid include bacon, turkey, veal, venison, organ meats (such as liver), and fish like anchovies, sardines, shellfish, herring, cod, haddock, trout, and scallops.
If natural remedies do not provide relief, consult a doctor immediately.
Consult a Doctor About Gout at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri
If you often experience joint pain, swelling, or persistently high uric acid levels, it’s important to get checked early before complications develop. Early and proper treatment can help prevent permanent joint damage. At Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri, you can consult with experienced internal medicine specialists and rheumatology subspecialists who are skilled in diagnosing and managing gout.
1. dr. R. Gantira Wijayakusumah Danasasmita, Sp.PD, Subsp.R(K)
dr. Gantira is an internal medicine specialist with expertise in managing various health problems, including hypertension, digestive disorders, dengue fever, liver dysfunction, as well as rheumatologic and autoimmune complaints. She has a strong interest in rheumatology and is experienced in treating conditions such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, spondyloarthritis, and various joint problems—from knees and hips to fingers.
She completed her medical degree at the Faculty of Medicine, Jenderal Achmad Yani University (UNJANI), internal medicine residency at the University of Indonesia, and rheumatology subspecialty training at the same institution.
Practice schedule at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri:
- Tuesday: 15.00 – 18.00 WIB
- Friday: 10.00 – 13.00 WIB
- Saturday: 15.00 – 18.00 WIB
2. dr. Nancy Indah Lestari, Sp.PD
dr. Nancy Indah Lestari is an internal medicine specialist who manages various internal organ disorders, including metabolic issues, infections, and chronic conditions. With a meticulous and patient-centered approach, she provides comprehensive and safe care.
She completed her medical education at Atma Jaya University and continued her internal medicine residency at Sam Ratulangi University.
Practice schedule at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri:
- Monday: 08.00 – 18.00 WIB
- Tuesday: 08.00 – 18.00 WIB
- Wednesday: 08.00 – 18.00 WIB
- Thursday: 08.00 – 18.00 WIB
- Friday: 08.00 – 18.00 WIB
- Saturday: 08.00 – 17.00 WIB
To make your visit easier, use the Chat via WhatsApp feature, Book Appointment, or the Care Dokter app—available on Google Play and the App Store—to check queue numbers and access complete information.
