Gout Home Remedies Using Ice

Gout is a painful form of arthritis caused by elevated levels of uric acid. The excess uric acid crystallizes and forms deposits in the joints and toes. This causes painful symptoms, mostly at night, involving inflammation and tenderness of the joints. While your doctor can prescribe useful medications to alleviate the symptoms of gout, there are home remedies you can try as well.

Inflammation

• Ice is known for reducing inflammation and numbing pain and is therefore an adequate source of relief for gout patients. Apply ice to affected joints to reduce pain and swelling.

Application

• Be careful to not leave the ice on skin for too long, as this can cause added pain and redness. Wrap the ice in a paper towel and apply gentle pressure for 5 to 6 minutes at a time, then remove. Repeat as often as desired.

Remedy

• Take note that this remedy does not affect the source of gout, which is the internal deposit of uric acid crystals.