When an attack occurs, gout symptoms will usually last anywhere from a few hours up to several days depending on the person. These attacks usually last the same length of time regardless of whether or not the person is taking medication. Many people who have gout will experience repeated attacks over an extended period of time.

With gout, prevention may be more important than treating the attacks. Some prevention steps include monitoring your diet, drinking enough fluids, weight loss, and some medications may help.

Drinking enough fluids helps to prevent the onset of gout attacks, so it is important to keep your fluid intake up. Also, limit alcohol consumption because it can contribute to dehydration, which may in turn cause a gout attack to start. Alcohol also effects the metabolisms ability to take care of uric acid, the excretion of uric acid will be slowed down. As the uric acid levels in the body increase, it may collect in the joints and form crystals.

You may consider preventing gout attacks by following a diet for gout to reduce the levels of uric acid. Avoid foods such as shellfish, organ meats (such as liver and kidneys) and sweet breads. High levels of meat and seafood may increase your risk of having a gout attack. Adding dairy to your diet may help to prevent gout attacks. Avoid any form of alcohol.

For long term prevention, weight loss can be a big factor in lowering the risk of gout attacks.