5th May 2024

A 60-year-old man presents with a sudden onset of severe pain, redness, and swelling in his left big toe.

A 60-year-old man presents with a sudden onset of severe pain, redness, and swelling in his left big toe. He has a history of hypertension and is on thiazide diuretics. He denies any recent trauma or injury to the toe. His renal function is normal.

Which is the most appropriate initial treatment?