Services / Service details
Gout
Treating acute joint inflammation and preventing further attacks.
Understanding the condition
Gout involves deposits of uric acid crystals, particularly in joints, where they can cause severe inflammation. Reduced excretion of uric acid through the kidneys is common. Raised uric acid alone does not necessarily mean a gout attack.
Common symptoms
An attack often starts suddenly with a very painful, red and swollen joint, frequently the big toe. Other joints can also be affected. A hot joint with fever needs urgent assessment because bacterial infection is another possibility.
Diagnosis and assessment
We assess symptoms, the joint, previous attacks and other conditions. Blood tests, including kidney function, aid interpretation. Unclear cases may require specialist assessment or joint aspiration; a single uric acid reading does not determine the diagnosis.
Treatment and ongoing care
An acute attack is treated with suitable anti-inflammatory medicines. Recurrent attacks or additional risks may require ongoing uric acid-lowering treatment. Dietary advice, moderation of alcohol and management of modifiable factors complement treatment.
Monitoring your progress together
We discuss which changes to watch for in everyday life and when another check-up would be useful. Your questions, personal goals and how well you tolerate treatment inform further decisions. Where needed, we coordinate with your treating specialists.
Your appointment at the practice
Bring your health insurance card, recent medical letters, existing test results and a medication list. Note any changes in your symptoms and your main questions. Do not change existing treatment yourself; we will discuss together whether adjustments are needed.