Pseudogout Treatment

Treatment of pseudogout is a matter of managing the discomfort during active pseudogout episodes. There is no cure for pseudogout and nothing is available to dissolve the crystal deposits that already exist.

Without treatment the pain and discomfort of pseudogout will go away on its own within 5-12 days. However, with treatment, symptoms can be relieved within 24 hours.

Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment options include the following:

Medications

Decreasing inflammation may slow the advance of joint deterioration.

• Anti-inflammatory medications-(eg, aspirin) are administered to decrease inflammation.
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)-(eg, ibuprofen, naproxen, indomethacin) are given to stop painful attacks quickly and to reduce inflammation.
• Corticosteroids-used to decrease inflammation. They may be injected into the affected joint or given as pills.
• Colchicine-another type of anti-inflammatory medicine. Studies have found that colchicine can be used to prevent further attacks.

© 2009 Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Procedures

• Cortisone shots-Your doctor may choose to give you a cortisone shot into the affected joint. Cortisone is a powerful anti-inflammatory medication. It is a synthetic (man-made) version of a type of steroid that is produced naturally by a gland in your body called the adrenal gland.
• Arthrocentesis-This procedure involves removal of fluid and crystals from the joint through a needle. Removal of the fluid may give you some relief from the pain.
• Surgery-sometimes done to repair or replace any damaged joints.

Rest

It is important for you to protect your joints by giving them a rest.