I've had bouts of it from time to time for the last 10 years or so, once I hit 40. It wasn't so bad at first, and it seemed to go away on its own after a few days, but that isn't the case now. These days, when I get it, unless I take my prescription medicine right away, it will set in for 2 weeks or longer. I my case, home remedies may give some temporary relief for the symptoms, but only the prescription medication (Indomethacin 25mg) or (long painful) time will cause it to go away. I only take my prescription at the onset of an attack.
Like others have said, get into see a doctor, because none of the over the counter medicine is really effective. Once I have an attack there are a few things that seem to lessen the pain or cause it to go away sooner:
1. Drink lots of water. Force yourself to drink much more than usual. Your urine should be almost clear, and the more you go, the better.
2. Cold water or an ice pack on the joint may give some temporary pain relief and allow you to sleep.
3. This hurts, but I try to exercise the joint. I massage it after/during applying ice, and if I can stand it, I try to take short walks, and then elevate the joint and apply ice.