Thanks for putting your query over here. Most likely cause for the condition you described can be gout.Anti inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen or naproxen will give you relief.But you need to visit physician in that case who will confirm the diagnosis based upon your clinical history,physical examination and blood tests like uric acid levels and if required,can refer for bone fluid analysis.Certain medications,excess alcohol intake,kidney problems,dehydration,anything can provoke the attack.So it will be necessary to do this risk assessment in your case Treatment of gout will be based on combination of drugs and diet control.In case of redness and swelling of joint occurs,show immediately to orthopaedician or rheumatologist. Next likely cause can be osteoarthritis.To rule out other possible causes,would like to ask you,Is your pain also associated with stiffness of joints?What are the other joints which are involved? keep your weight within control.Keep yourself well hydrated.Avoid alcohol.