Swollen joints may be particularly painful if you use the affected joint to walk or carry items. If your swollen and painful joints are making it difficult for you to carry out your normal routine, consider seeing a doctor for medical treatment.

Symptoms

Your joints may not only be swollen, they may also be red, warm, tender and painful. For example, according to the Mayo Clinic a case of gout may cause a joint to seem very hot.

Causes

The treatment for swollen joints will depend on the cause. For an accurate diagnosis, see your doctor. Some conditions that may cause swollen joints are gout, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and lupus.

Medication Treatment

Depending on your specific medical condition, your doctor may prescribe medications to ease the inflammation and pain. He may recommend an NSAID (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug), a corticosteroid or an immunosuppressant.

Lifestyle Treatment

In addition to medication treatment, your doctor may recommend some lifestyle changes that can help your swollen joints. For example, in the case of lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, gentle exercise may help. According to the Mayo Clinic, swelling due to rheumatoid arthritis may improve with heat and cold therapy.

Nutrition Treatment

According to the Mayo Clinic, patients with gout should consume plenty of water (at least eight to 16 cups daily) and limit their protein intake to about four to six ounces of meat daily. A healthy diet with lots of vegetables and whole grains may help lupus patients.

Source:

The Mayo Clinic: Gout

The Mayo Clinic: Rheumatoid Arthritis

The Mayo Clinic: Lupus

More Information:

Medline Plus: Joint Pain