Gout

What is Gout?

Gout is a common and complex form of arthritis that can affect anyone. It's characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness in one or more joints, most often in the big toe. An attack of gout can occur suddenly, often waking you up in the middle of the night with the sensation that your big toe is on fire. Gout occurs when urate crystals accumulate in your joint, causing the inflammation and intense pain of a gout attack.

Symptoms

Diagnosis

Diagnosis typically includes: • Joint fluid test to look for urate crystals • Blood test to measure uric acid levels in blood • X-ray imaging to rule out other causes of joint inflammation • Ultrasound to detect urate crystals in joints • Dual-energy CT scan to detect urate crystals • Assessment of affected joints and attack patterns

Treatment

Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing future attacks: • NSAIDs for pain and inflammation during attacks • Colchicine to reduce gout pain • Corticosteroids for patients who can't take NSAIDs or colchicine • Medications to prevent gout complications (allopurinol, febuxostat) • Dietary changes to reduce purine-rich foods • Weight loss and exercise • Limiting alcohol and sugary beverages • Drinking plenty of water • Managing other health conditions (diabetes, high blood pressure)