Gout Diagnosis

Gout is a kind of arthritis that occurs when uric acid crystals form in joints. Uric acid normally dissolves in your blood and excreted via your urine. When this acid builds up, it forms painful crystals that cause swelling in joints.

Risk Factors

• High levels of uric acid cause gout, and certain factors tend to increase these levels in your body. Excessive alcohol use, medical conditions such as hypertension and diabetes and family history all increase your likelihood of developing gout.

Complications

• Untreated gout can cause additional medical complications, such as recurrent gout episodes, advanced gout and kidney stones.

Gout Attack

• A gout attack may occur suddenly, usually at night, and causes the affected joint to become painful, red and feel hot. Commonly afflicted joints include those in the big toe, the feet and the knees.

Diagnosis

• Your doctor may perform a few tests in order to diagnose gout. A joint fluid test involves taking a sample of joint fluid to check for crystals, and a blood test will measure the level of uric acid present.

Treatments

• Treatment for gout generally involves treating the symptoms with medication, such as pain relievers and anti-inflammatories.