Gout

Gout is a common form of inflammatory arthritis. This causes swelling and pain in your joints, often due to the accumulation of urate crystals or uric acid. Consult with an online GP within minutes, 24/7, across Australia.

When to consult a doctor for Gout?

If you have sudden or severe joint pain

See a doctor if you experience sudden, intense pain, especially in the big toe or other joints, accompanied by redness, warmth, or swelling.

If gout attacks are recurring or worsening

Medical review is important if gout flare-ups become more frequent, last longer, or interfere with daily activities.

If there are signs of infection or fever

Seek urgent care if the affected joint is extremely painful with fever, chills, or signs of infection, as this may indicate a more serious condition.

This guide does not replace professional care. Consult a doctor to manage your symptoms. In emergencies, call 000. The content is research-backed & medically reviewed. by Dr. Ammar AL-ANI, MBChB, CCBST, AMC.

Causes

The most common causes of gout are related to diet, body weight, underlying health conditions, and certain medications, such as:

High uric acid levels: Excess uric acid in the blood leads to crystal formation in joints

Dietary factors: Foods high in purines, such as red meat and certain seafood

Medical conditions: High blood pressure, diabetes, and kidney disease

Medications: Some diuretics and other medicines can increase uric acid levels

Being overweight or obese

Genetic predisposition

Symptoms

Gout symptoms typically occur suddenly, often at night, and include:

Intense joint pain: Most commonly affecting the big toe, but also ankles, knees, wrists, and elbows
Redness and warmth: The affected joint becomes red, warm, and tender
Swelling: Significant swelling around the affected joint
Limited range of motion: Difficulty moving the affected joint normally
Lingering discomfort: After the acute pain resolves, some joint discomfort may persist for days to weeks

Gout attacks can be triggered by diet, dehydration, alcohol, certain medications, and illness. Risk factors for developing gout include high uric acid levels, obesity, kidney disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and family history.

Preventing and managing

Effective prevention and management for Gout focus on diet, weight control, and following medical advice, including:

Maintain a healthy weight
Limit alcohol and sugary drinks
Reduce intake of high-purine foods
Stay well hydrated
Take prescribed medications as directed
Consult a doctor before making significant dietary or medication changes

Hola Health provides a convenient way to consult an AHPRA-registered doctor online, 24/7 across Australia.

Clinical note: A telehealth assessment can help evaluate gout symptoms, provide advice on acute management, and issue prescriptions for anti-inflammatory medications or urate-lowering therapy if clinically indicated. For initial diagnosis, blood tests (uric acid levels, kidney function) and in some cases joint fluid analysis may be required — your GP can arrange pathology referrals. Telehealth is a complementary service; joint examination and fluid aspiration require in-person assessment. If you develop a high fever with severe joint pain, seek urgent in-person medical care — this may indicate a joint infection rather than a gout flare. We recommend sharing your consult summaries with your regular GP to ensure continuity of care.