Gout

Book a consultation with one of our doctors if:

You experience a sudden and severe joint pain, especially in the big toe but possibly affecting other joints (ankle, knee, etc.)
The affected joint(s) is red, swollen, tender, and warm to the touch.
You have difficulty moving or walking due to the pain in the joint(s).
You suspect you may be at risk for gout due to family history, diet, weight, or certain medical conditions.
You've had a previous gout attack and want to discuss strategies for preventing future ones.
You experience a gout attack accompanied by a high fever, chills, or feeling generally unwell. (This could indicate gouty arthritis, a more complex form of gout.)
The affected joint(s) becomes extremely swollen, red, and hot, potentially signifying a septic joint (infection).
You experience sudden and severe joint pain after an injury or trauma to the joint. (This could be a different type of joint injury.)
You have pre-existing medical conditions (e.g., heart disease, kidney problems) and experience a gout attack.

Information

Book a consultation with one of our doctors if:

You experience a sudden and severe joint pain, especially in the big toe but possibly affecting other joints (ankle, knee, etc.)
The affected joint(s) is red, swollen, tender, and warm to the touch.
You have difficulty moving or walking due to the pain in the joint(s).
You suspect you may be at risk for gout due to family history, diet, weight, or certain medical conditions.
You've had a previous gout attack and want to discuss strategies for preventing future ones.
You experience a gout attack accompanied by a high fever, chills, or feeling generally unwell. (This could indicate gouty arthritis, a more complex form of gout.)
The affected joint(s) becomes extremely swollen, red, and hot, potentially signifying a septic joint (infection).
You experience sudden and severe joint pain after an injury or trauma to the joint. (This could be a different type of joint injury.)
You have pre-existing medical conditions (e.g., heart disease, kidney problems) and experience a gout attack.

Do’s:

Hydrate: Drink plenty of water (around 8 glasses daily) to flush uric acid from your body.
Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight can contribute to gout. Aim for a healthy weight through a balanced diet and exercise.
Limit purine-rich foods: Reduce consumption of red meat, organ meats (liver, kidneys), seafood (especially shellfish), and processed foods high in purines.
Choose low-fat dairy: Low-fat dairy products may have a protective effect against gout attacks.
Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables: These are generally low in purines and offer essential nutrients.
Limit alcohol intake: Excessive alcohol consumption can raise uric acid levels and trigger gout attacks.
Moderate coffee consumption: Studies suggest moderate coffee intake (4-6 cups daily) may be beneficial for gout management.
Manage stress: Stress can worsen gout symptoms. Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation.
Maintain a healthy diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can promote overall health and potentially reduce gout risk.
Take medication as prescribed: If your doctor prescribes medication to lower uric acid levels or manage pain during gout attacks, take it exactly as directed.
See your doctor regularly: Schedule regular checkups with your doctor to monitor your gout and adjust treatment plans as needed.

Don'ts:

Ignore gout symptoms: Don't wait for symptoms to worsen before seeking medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial.
Self-medicate: Don't take over-the-counter medications or supplements without consulting your doctor, as they may interact with other medications or worsen gout.
Binge on sugary drinks: Sugary drinks like sodas and fruit juices can elevate uric acid levels and increase gout risk.
Dehydrate yourself: Not drinking enough fluids can worsen gout by making it harder for your body to flush out uric acid.
Consume excessive fructose: Fructose, found in fruits and processed foods, can be broken down into purines in the body, potentially contributing to gout.
Smoke: Smoking can increase uric acid levels and worsen gout symptoms.
Eat large portions of red meat: Red meat is high in purines, so limit your intake to manage gout effectively.
Neglect exercise: Regular exercise is beneficial for overall health and may help manage weight, a gout risk factor. However, consult your doctor before starting a new exercise program, especially during a gout attack.
Stop medication abruptly: Don't discontinue medications prescribed by your doctor without consulting them first, even if you feel better.
Delay seeking medical attention: If you experience a gout attack, seek medical attention promptly for pain management and to prevent future complications.

Possible Questions:

Can you describe the pain you're experiencing?
When did the pain start? How long does it typically last?
Which joint(s) are affected?
Have you experienced similar pain in the past? If so, how often?
Do you notice any redness, swelling, warmth, or tenderness in the affected joint(s)?
Do you have any family members with gout?
What is your typical diet? Do you consume a lot of red meat, organ meats, or seafood?
Do you drink alcohol regularly? If so, how much?
Are you overweight or obese?
Do you have any underlying medical conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or kidney problems?
Are you currently taking any medications, including over-the-counter drugs or supplements?

1.Symptoms

What are the common symptoms of a gout attack?

The most prominent symptom of gout is sudden and severe pain in one or more joints, often in the big toe. The affected joint will likely be red, swollen, tender, and warm to the touch. Other symptoms may include:

Fever and chills
Limited mobility in the affected joint
Pain that wakes you up at night

Visit our Symptoms & Causes page for more information

Should I see a doctor if I experience a gout attack?

Absolutely. Seeking prompt medical attention during a gout attack is crucial to minimise pain and inflammation and prevent further complications. Early diagnosis and treatment can also help prevent future attacks.

Visit our Symptoms & Causes page for more information.

2.Diagnosis

How is gout diagnosed at LIPS?

Our specialists diagnose gout using a combination of methods. This may involve:

Discussing your medical history and symptoms in detail.
Performing a physical examination of the affected joint(s).
Joint fluid aspiration: A small sample of fluid may be withdrawn from the affected joint using a needle and analysed for the presence of uric acid crystals, a hallmark of gout.
Blood tests to measure uric acid levels and assess for other conditions.

Visit our Diagnosis & Treatment page for more information.

How long does it take to get diagnosed with gout?

An initial diagnosis of gout can often be reached on the same day as your consultation at LIPS, depending on the specific tests required.

Visit our Diagnosis & Treatment page for more information.

3.Treatment

What treatment options are available for gout attacks at LIPS?

LIPS offers prompt treatment to manage the pain and inflammation of a gout attack. This may include:

Medications: Medications like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroids can help reduce inflammation and pain.
Joint immobilisation: Resting the affected joint and applying ice packs can also help manage pain and swelling.

Visit our Diagnosis & Treatment page for more information.

How long does a gout attack typically last?

With prompt treatment, a gout attack can significantly improve within a few days. However, ongoing treatment is crucial to prevent future flares.

Visit our Diagnosis & Treatment page for more information.

What about long-term gout management?

LIPS can help you develop a personalised plan to manage gout and prevent future attacks. This may involve:

Medication to lower uric acid levels and prevent crystal formation.
Dietary changes to reduce purine intake, as purines break down into uric acid.
Weight management, if necessary, as obesity can worsen gout.

Visit our Diagnosis & Treatment page for more information.

4.Insurance

At LIPS we work with a wide range of insurance providers. Our dedicated team can assist you in verifying your coverage and understanding any associated costs for gout diagnosis and treatment.

Do you accept my insurance plan?

Please don't hesitate to inquire about your specific insurance plan. We can help you navigate the insurance process and ensure you receive the best possible care to manage your gout.

How does LIPS work with the National Health Service?

Our goal is to give you answers as quickly as possible and get you on the right treatment path fast – no strings attached. When you come to us, you will be seen by a qualified specialist who can determine if your situation is serious or not that same day. We don’t want you to wait weeks on end for an appointment because every minute counts when it comes to something as important as your health. If your situation is serious, our specialist will write to your doctor on the NHS advising them that you need an urgent appointment.