Given that infectious processes may also cause swelling, and not knowing your medical history, I would suggest at least contacting your health provider to confirm your suspicions.

As you are probably aware, gout is caused by a build up of uric acid in the body. Decreasing protein intake has been helpful, and increasing urine output should also be helpful. Cherries traditionally have been used, although effective doses can be large. I have a patient who refused to stop the Atkin\'s diet who was controlled with bilberry (think cherry family concentrated in tablet form) and an occasional homeopathic colchicine (gave him similar relief without the toxicity and diarrhea). I cannot say if either would be helpful in your case. It may be worthwhile to also contact your local licensed naturopathic doctor to discuss the situation and find out if either would be effective for you (use this site or www.naturopathic.org)

I hope this is helpful. Christopher Maloney, Naturopathic Doctor Augusta and Portland, Maine www.maloneymedical.com Individualized research available for a fee. Informational only, I cannot treat or diagnose via the web.