7 Ways to Get Rid of Gout Pain

Anyone who has ever woken up with gout knows how terribly painful an acute attack can be. One of the first things people often ask themselves, especially when they have their first couple attacks is "How do I get rid of gout pain?" This article will show you seven ways to choose from in order to alleviate your pain.

1. Alfalfa. Yes, alfalfa is a great way to help you overcome a gouty episode. I use it all the time. In fact, it is my favorite way to alleviate the pain and is also great for prevention. Alfalfa has quite a few healthy attributes to it, but the one we are looking for in this case is the excellent anti-inflammatory benefits. Inflammation is what causes the majority of pain during an attack, and alfalfa works great. It is also very beneficial for arthritis, and this disease is technically a form of arthritis.

2. Ibuprofen. Ibuprofen does work to help reduce pain as well as other NSAIDs. It is not my favorite choice as I prefer to use natural gout remedies, but if you are trying to get rid of an active attack ibuprofen will help. Only use as directed, and be sure to pay attention to the caution warnings for people with such problems as kidney ailments.

3. Indomethacin. Indomethacin is the medication that doctors usually prescribe to help get rid of gout pain. As with the alfalfa and ibuprofen, it helps reduce painful joint swelling. It will not fix the underlying problem, but it will get rid of your painful symptoms.

4. Pineapples. Pineapples may seem like a strange item to add to this list, but they do help. They will not get rid of an attack on their own, but when used in conjunction with other methods, they are definitely helpful. Pineapples contain an enzyme called bromelain and bromelain is a natural pain reliever. These delicious fruits also contain potassium. Potassium helps break down the uric acid crystals which are usually the underlying cause of the disease.

5. Celery Seed Extract. This herbal remedy for gout is another method you can use to help reduce your discomfort. It is also very good at reducing swelling. However, a very small percentage of the population is allergic to celery seed. If this is you, definitely avoid this remedy, as celery seed allergies are as dangerous as peanut allergies. Pregnant women should avoid celery seed as well. If you do not have allergy issues, celery seed extract does appear to work. I have used it successfully.

6. Stinging Nettle. This is an old favorite over in Europe. Stinging nettle also has the ability to reduce painful swelling in your joints. It has been used from gout to rheumatoid arthritis and chronic arthritis.

7. Cherries. This is probably the most common natural treatment for gout. As you have seen, the most common thread in all 6 of the previous remedies is their ability to reduce inflammation. Cherries are no exception. They not only help with swelling, but they help fix the underlying problem of uric acid concentration as well. They are truly a miracle food for this disease. You can use cherry juice for gout when cherries are not in season. You will get the wonderful benefits of this amazing fruit. I have used cherry juice concentrate for years with great results. It is my second favorite remedy next to alfalfa.