9 Easy Tips For Relieving Gout Pain At Night

Have you ever found yourself tossing and turning in bed, grappling with the sudden onslaught of gout pain in the middle of the night? If the answer is a weary nod, you’re not alone. Gout’s nocturnal visits can be relentless, but fear not – in this blog, we share easy-to-try tips on how to stop gout pain at night.

Let’s begin by discussing what exactly gout is!

What Is Gout Pain?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by the accumulation of uric acid in your joints. Uric acid is a waste product that usually dissolves in the blood and gets excreted through urine. But, when there is a buildup of uric acid or your body cannot eliminate it properly, it can form needle-like crystals in the joints, especially in the big toe

These uric acid crystals trigger an inflammatory response, resulting in sudden and severe pain, swelling, redness and warmth in the affected joint.

So… how do you get relief from these painful symptoms? Let’s talk about this next!

How Can I Stop Gout Pain At Night?

If you’re looking for remedies for gout in your wrists, how to cure gout pain in the knee naturally, and even home remedies for gout pain a thumb, here are easy-to-try tips on how to fix gout:

1. Elevate the Affected Joint: Elevating the affected joint can help reduce swelling. Prop up the joint with a bolster pillow or multiple pillows to keep it elevated while sleeping.

2. Apply Ice: Applying an ice pack or a cold pad to the affected joint can help reduce swelling and numb the area, providing relief from pain. Make sure to wrap the ice pack in a thin cloth to prevent frostbite, and apply it for about 15-20 minutes.

3. Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration can help prevent the buildup of uric acid crystals. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, and consider keeping a glass of water by your bedside to stay hydrated at night.

4. Avoid Trigger Foods: Certain foods high in purines, such as red meat, organ meats, and seafood, can contribute to gout attacks. Avoiding these trigger foods may help prevent or reduce the severity of gout attacks.

5. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Losing weight if you are overweight can help reduce the frequency and severity of gout attacks. However, avoid crash diets, because rapid weight loss can actually trigger gout attacks.

6. Use Supportive Devices: Consider using joint supports or splints to help stabilize the affected joint and reduce movement during the night. This is especially helpful if you experience regular gout attacks.

7. Practice Gentle Movement: Perform gentle range-of-motion exercises for the affected joint during the day. This can help prevent stiffness and improve joint function.

8. Manage Stress: Chronic emotional stress has been linked to various health issues, including gout. Practice stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or relaxation exercises.

9. Take Medications as Prescribed: If your doctor has prescribed medications for gout, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), colchicine, or corticosteroids, take them as directed. These medications help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

When going to bed while experiencing gout pain, consider using a calming sleep aid to help you relax. Weighted blankets like our Cotton Napper promote Deep Touch Pressure (DTP), which has been shown to help reduce perceptions of pain. DTP supports your body to produce more serotonin (the happiness hormone) and melatonin (the sleep hormone), ensuring that you’re relaxed and ready for deep, restorative sleep.

Next, let’s look at some creams that have been shown to help with gout pain when applied to the affected joint.

What Is The Best Pain Relief Cream For Gout?

While there isn’t a specific pain relief cream designed exclusively for gout, there are several topical creams and gels that people with gout often find helpful for managing pain and inflammation. Here are some options you might consider:

1. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) Creams: NSAIDs like diclofenac or ibuprofen are available in topical formulations. They work by reducing inflammation and can help alleviate gout pain when applied directly to the affected joint.

2. Capsaicin Cream: Capsaicin, derived from chili peppers, can help relieve pain by desensitizing nerve receptors in the skin. It’s often used for various types of arthritis pain, including gout.

3. Menthol-Based Creams: Menthol-based creams can provide a cooling sensation that temporarily distracts from the pain associated with gout. They don’t address the underlying cause but can offer some relief from the pain

4. Topical Corticosteroids: Prescription-strength corticosteroid creams or gels can reduce inflammation and relieve pain associated with gout flare-ups. However, long-term use of corticosteroids can have side effects, so they’re usually reserved for short-term relief.

5. Topical Lidocaine: Lidocaine is a local anesthetic that can temporarily numb the area where it’s applied, providing relief from gout pain.

6. CBD Creams: Cannabidiol (CBD) creams have gained popularity for their potential pain-relieving properties. While research on CBD for gout specifically is limited, some people find relief from using CBD topically

Before using any topical cream for gout pain relief, consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking other medications.

In the next section, we consider gout risk factors that may need long-term lifestyle changes to reduce the frequency and severity of gout attacks.

What Risk Factors Are Linked To Gout Pain?

Here are common factors that have been associated with an increase in the likelihood of developing gout:

1. Gender and Age: Gout is more common in men than in women, and it often occurs in middle-aged and older adults. However, postmenopausal women are at an increased risk compared to premenopausal women.

2. Family History: If you have a family history of gout, your risk may be higher. There is a genetic component to gout, and a family history of the condition can contribute to an increased susceptibility.

3. Obesity: Excess body weight, especially obesity, is a significant risk factor for gout. Obesity is associated with higher levels of uric acid and a greater likelihood of developing the condition.

4. Dietary Habits: Consuming a diet high in purines, which are found in certain foods like red meat, organ meats, seafood, and sugary beverages, can contribute to elevated uric acid levels and increase the risk of gout.

5. Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as hypertension, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and kidney disease, have also been associated with an increased risk of gout.

6. Medications: Some medications, such as diuretics (water pills) and certain types of cancer treatments, contribute to elevated uric acid levels and increase the risk of gout.

7. Joint Injuries or Surgery: People who have had joint injuries or surgery may be more prone to developing gout in the affected joint.

8. Lead Exposure: Long-term exposure to lead in the environment may contribute to an increased risk of gout.

While these factors increase the likelihood of developing gout, not everyone with these risk factors will necessarily develop the condition. Also, gout can affect people without any of these factors at all.

Next, let’s look at some symptoms to look out for to know that a gout attack is either about to occur or already under way.

Warning Signs Of A Gout Flare-Up

Here are some common tell-tale signs to keep your eye on:

1. Sudden Joint Pain: Gout typically affects one joint at a time, and the pain often comes on suddenly and intensifies quickly. The joint most commonly affected is the big toe, but gout can also occur in other joints such as the ankle, knee, elbow, wrist, and fingers.

2. Swelling and Redness: The affected joint may become swollen, red, and warm to the touch. This is a result of the inflammatory response triggered by the presence of uric acid crystals.

3. Tenderness: The joint may be tender to the touch, and even the lightest pressure or slightest contact can cause significant pain.

4. Limited Range of Motion: The inflammation and swelling can lead to a decreased range of motion in the affected joint. Movement may be difficult and uncomfortable.

5. Itching or Tingling Sensation: Some people report feeling itching or tingling sensations in the affected area before a gout attack.

6. Skin Changes: The skin over the affected joint may appear shiny or have a purplish hue.

7. Fatigue: Some people report experiencing fatigue or a feeling of being unwell before or during a gout flare-up.

8. Fever: In some cases, there may be a low-grade fever associated with a gout attack.

Not everyone with gout experiences all of these warning signs, and the severity of symptoms can vary. One common feature for most gout attacks though… is that they mostly happen at night.

Let’s look at why this is the case!

Why Is Gout Pain Common At Night?

Gout attacks often occur at night, and there are several reasons for this timing:

1. Temperature Drop: The temperature in your joints tends to be slightly lower at night. Uric acid crystals, which are the cause of gout, are more likely to form and crystallize in cooler environments. This means that the lower temperatures during the night may contribute to the crystallization of uric acid in the joints, leading to an increased likelihood of a nocturnal gout attack.

2. Dehydration during Sleep: When you’re asleep, the body can become mildly dehydrated. This dehydration can lead to a higher concentration of uric acid in the blood and an increased risk of crystal formation.

3. Lower Cortisol Levels: Cortisol, also known as the stress hormone, helps regulate inflammation. Cortisol levels naturally drop at night and with this, the anti-inflammatory response is reduced, making it easier for the inflammatory process triggered by uric acid crystals to cause pain and swelling.

4. Rest and Immobility: During sleep, joints typically remain in a fixed position for an extended period. Lack of movement can contribute to the concentration of uric acid crystals in the joint, increasing the likelihood of a gout attack.

While gout attacks commonly occur at night, they can also happen at any time of the day. Like mentioned above, various factors, including diet, genetics, overall health, and medication use, contribute to the risk of gout.

So, on top of the tips we have already shared, is there anything else you can do to help with gout? Yes! Certain drinks help with managing the underlying causes of this experience. Let’s talk about this next!

What Can I Drink For Gout Pain Relief?

Certain beverages can help remove gout symptoms, including:

1. Water: Plain water is the best choice for staying hydrated. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses (64 ounces) of water per day, and more if you are physically active or live in a hot climate.

2. Cherry Juice: Some studies suggest that tart cherry juice may help reduce gout symptoms. Cherries contain compounds that may lower uric acid levels and have anti-inflammatory effects. However, it’s essential to choose unsweetened cherry juice to avoid added sugars.

3. Coffee: Regular coffee consumption has been associated with a lower risk of gout attacks. The caffeine in coffee may help lower uric acid levels. However, moderation is key, as excessive caffeine intake may have other health implications.

4. Green Tea: Green tea is known for its antioxidant properties and may have anti-inflammatory effects. It might help in managing gout symptoms. Like with coffee, it’s essential to consume green tea in moderation.

5. Low-Fat or Skim Milk: Some studies suggest that low-fat or skim milk may have a protective effect against gout. Dairy products may help lower uric acid levels. However, people who are lactose intolerant or have other dietary restrictions should consider alternatives.

Certain beverages can contribute to gout or trigger attacks, so it’s advisable to limit or avoid them. These include:

Alcohol: Beer, in particular, has been associated with an increased risk of gout attacks. Moderate or eliminate alcohol consumption, especially beer and spirits high in purines.

Sweetened Beverages: Sugary drinks, such as sodas and fruit juices with added sugars, may contribute to gout risk. Opt for water, herbal teas, or beverages with artificial sweeteners if you need a low-calorie option.

Next, let’s see what major signs to look out for in order to seek timely medical attention.

When to See A Doctor

It’s vital to see a doctor if you experience symptoms of gout or if you have a history of gout and suspect a flare-up. Here are specific situations when you should seek immediate medical attention:

1. First Gout Attack: If you’re experiencing symptoms like sudden and severe joint pain, swelling, and redness, and you’ve never had a gout diagnosis before, see a doctor for proper evaluation and confirmation.

2. Recurrence of Gout Symptoms: If you have a history of gout and recognize familiar symptoms, seek medical attention, especially if the symptoms are severe or if you haven’t been managing the condition effectively.

3. Fever and Chills: If you experience fever and chills along with joint symptoms, it may indicate an infection in the joint, which requires prompt medical attention.

4. Difficulty Moving the Joint: If you find it challenging to move the affected joint due to pain or if there’s a significant decrease in your range of motion, seek medical advice.

5. New or Unusual Symptoms: If you notice new or unusual symptoms associated with your joint in pain or the skin around it, consult a doctor for a comprehensive evaluation.

6. Preventing Future Flare-Ups: If you’ve been diagnosed with gout and want to explore preventive measures, lifestyle changes, or medications to manage the condition and reduce the risk of future flare-ups, consult with your healthcare provider.

7. Concerns about Medications: If you’re taking medications for gout and have concerns about side effects or if the prescribed treatment is not effectively managing your symptoms, discuss these concerns with your healthcare professional.

Remember that early intervention is key in managing gout effectively. A healthcare provider can diagnose gout, recommend appropriate treatment, and help you make lifestyle changes to prevent future flare-ups.

Conclusion

Effective management of gout pain includes a holistic approach. This means that you should consider factors like lifestyle and dietary choices, which may be putting you at greater risk of developing this pain. While there is no one thing you can try for immediate gout pain relief, the tips we discuss in this blog can help you find short-term solutions to your symptoms

To stop gout pain at night, elevate the joint, use a cold compress, stay hydrated, and manage stress effectively. Drinks like water, cherry juice, coffee, and green tea can also help, especially if you steer clear of alcohol and sugary drinks. And if you experience frequent gout flare-ups or severe pain accompanied by a fever or chills, seek immediate medical help.