Gout in the knee comes on suddenly, often overnight, with severe pain, heat, redness and swelling. It is caused by uric acid crystals in the joint. Because an infected joint looks the same, a hot red knee should be seen by a doctor the same day.
Treatment
- A doctor may drain fluid to confirm crystals and rule out infection
- Anti-inflammatory medicines, colchicine or steroids calm an attack
- Long-term: medicine to lower uric acid if attacks repeat
Lower the risk
- Limit alcohol (especially beer) and sugary drinks
- Less red meat and seafood
- Drink plenty of water