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Gout: treatment and diet
gout · gouty arthritis · uric acid · gout attack
Gout is when crystals build up in a joint and it suddenly becomes inflamed. The doctor relieves the attack and chooses treatment so that attacks do not come back.
For sudden severe pain and swelling in a joint, often the big toe; or when uric acid in the blood is high.
⏱ Duration: the visit usually takes 20 to 30 minutes, test results in 1 to 2 days
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Tests. Blood for uric acid is usually taken on an empty stomach. Ask the clinic.
- Diary. Write down what you ate and drank before attacks.
- Medicines. Do not stop them on your own, even if the joint no longer hurts.
What to bring
- Your ID
- Uric acid test results
- Joint scans, if you have them
- A list of your medicines
How it goes
- The doctor asks about attacks and diet
- Examines your joints
- Sends you for a blood test and sometimes a joint ultrasound
- Sometimes takes fluid from the joint for testing
- Prescribes treatment for the attack
- If attacks are frequent, chooses a medicine that lowers uric acid
What you'll feel
- Examining the sore joint may be painful
- The blood test is a short needle prick
Afterwards
- Drink more water
- Limit alcohol, especially beer, red meat and sweet fizzy drinks
- Gout medicines are taken for a long time - do not stop on your own
- Check-up tests follow your doctor's schedule
Contact a doctor straight away if
- A hot, badly swollen joint with high fever - see a doctor urgently
Common questions
Can gout be cured with diet?
Diet helps, but medicines are often needed too. Your doctor decides.
Why did an attack start after I began treatment?
This can happen in the first months. Do not stop the pills, tell your doctor.