Treatment:

Treatment may involve the removal of fluid to relieve pressure within the joint. A needle is placed into the joint and fluid is removed (aspirated).

Steroid injections may be helpful to treat severely inflamed joints. A course of oral steroids is sometimes used when multiple joints are inflamed.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDS) may help ease painful attacks. Colchicine may be useful in some people.

Expectations (prognosis):

Most people do well with treatment.

Complications:

Permanent joint damage can occur without treatment.

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have attacks of joint swelling and joint pain.