Gout
Gout is a disease that results from an overload of uric acid in the body. This overload of uric acid leads to the formation of tiny crystals of urate that deposit in tissues of the body, especially the joints.
How Is Gout Evaluated?
Your physician will conduct:
- Joint fluid test to test for urate crystals.
- Blood test to check uric acid levels.
- X-rays to assess joint damage.
How Is Gout Treated?
Self Care
Lose weight
Put ice on the joint when an attack flares up
Diet change
- Reduce intake of red meat and seafood
- Avoid alcohol, especially beer
- Increase intake of low-fat dairy, liquids and complex carbohydrates (eg. whole wheat)
- Eat a low-cholesterol, low-fat diet
Nonsurgical treatment
Medications:
- Colchicine
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Corticosteroids
Following a gout flare-up, your physician may recommend medications to reduce the build-up of and aid the removal of uric acid — to reduce the risk of a recurrence.
Surgery
Surgery is needed only if there has been severe joint damage, in which case the surgeon will remove degenerated tissue and repair the remainder.
For more information or to make an appointment please call
1-877-233-WELL (9355).