Gout; really?

Okay so my doctor has informed me that the swelling, pain and redness I have been experiencing for the past year are signs of gout, not arthritis, which is what I previously assumed was plaguing me.  I am thoroughly confused.  I am not overweight, don't drink and don't consume massive amounts of meat I am a normal healthy 65 year old woman.  I am confused.  My uric acid blood test seemed to fall in the normal range but I will admit I seldom drink water.  I turned 65 and never seemed to have any problems and then; kapow!  My doctor did do an x-ray of my knee and it shows no arthritis.  This time it has hit my knee, my wrist bone and the ball of one of my feet; geez I guess gettin old really isn't for sissies.  My doc recommended Mortin 3x a day and ice packs.  A friend of ours recommended Black cheery concentrate, which I find delicious.  I put 2 tbs in water and then actually drink a bottle of water without threats from my husband.  The thing in my knee has been going on for about a month, when can I expect some relief, anybody???  Thanks for listening, I am so glad I found this website as my dr is now on vacation so I can't really ask her any questions until next week.  Oh and she has me set up with physical therapy for tomorrow?  Again, I am confused