Gout: Symptoms, diagnosis, and home treatment
Written by Dr Gosagan Gopalakrishnan, BSc (Hons), MBChB, DRCOG, MRCGP, FRACGP

Contents

What are the symptoms of gout?
Gout typically manifests as sudden and intense joint pain, often occurring at night. The key symptoms include:- Severe joint pain: The affected joint may feel excruciatingly painful, often described as a burning sensation.
- Redness and swelling: The joint becomes visibly swollen, tender, and red.
- Warmth: The affected area may feel hot to the touch.
- Limited mobility: Pain and swelling can restrict joint movement.
Also read: How to reduce inflammation in the body - Doctor's pick
Experiencing these symptoms? Speak with a doctor within 15 minutes.
What makes gout flare up?
Gout flares are caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints. Factors that can contribute to a flare-up include:- Diet: Foods high in purines, such as red meat, organ meats, and shellfish, can raise uric acid levels.
- Alcohol consumption: Especially beer and spirits, can trigger a gout attack.
- Dehydration: Not drinking enough water can lead to increased uric acid concentration.
- Stress: Both physical and emotional stress can provoke flares.
- Medications: Certain medications, like diuretics, can increase uric acid levels.
What foods should you avoid if you have gout?
- High-purine foods: Red meats, organ meats (like liver), and certain fish (such as sardines and mackerel).
- Sugary drinks: Especially those sweetened with high-fructose corn syrup.
- Alcohol: Beer, wine, and spirits can contribute to higher uric acid levels.
How to self-treat gout?
While medical treatment is often necessary, you can take steps at home to relieve symptoms and prevent further attacks:- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help flush out excess uric acid.
- Apply cold compresses: Use an ice pack on the affected joint to reduce pain and swelling.
- Rest: Avoid putting pressure on the affected joint during a flare.
- Over-the-counter medication: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce pain and inflammation.
- Maintain a healthy weight: Losing excess weight can lower uric acid levels and reduce the frequency of flares.
What are the risk factors for gout?
Several factors increase the likelihood of developing gout:- Genetics: A family history of gout can raise your risk.
- Age and Gender: Gout is more common in men and in women after menopause.
- Health Conditions: High blood pressure, diabetes, and kidney disease are linked to higher uric acid levels.
- Medications: Some drugs, such as thiazide diuretics, may increase uric acid levels.
How is gout diagnosed?
Diagnosing gout involves a combination of clinical evaluation and diagnostic tests:- Medical history and symptoms: A doctor will inquire about your symptoms, diet, and any family history of gout.
- Physical examination: The affected joint will be examined for signs of swelling, redness, and warmth.
- Blood tests: These can measure uric acid levels, though high levels alone do not confirm gout.
- Joint fluid analysis: A sample of fluid from the affected joint may be examined for uric acid crystals.
- Imaging tests: Ultrasound or X-rays may be used to detect joint damage or crystal deposits.
Can gout be prevented?
While gout cannot always be prevented, certain lifestyle changes can significantly reduce your risk:- Adopt a balanced diet: Focus on low-purine foods and avoid triggers.
- Stay active: Regular exercise can help maintain a healthy weight and improve joint health.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking water throughout the day helps flush uric acid from the body.
- Limit alcohol and sugary drinks: These beverages can contribute to uric acid build-up.
When to consult a doctor?
You should seek medical advice if:- You experience frequent or severe gout attacks.
- The pain and swelling persist despite home treatment.
- You notice new or unusual symptoms.
- You have other health conditions that may complicate gout treatment.
How can Hola Health’s online doctor help via telehealth?
Hola Health’s online doctor service provides a convenient way to address gout-related concerns from the comfort of your home. Through telehealth, you can:- Get instant telehealth consultations: Speak with a doctor about your symptoms and receive tailored advice.
- Receive online prescriptions: Obtain medications through instant scripts to manage gout or prevent flares, sent directly to your mobile phone.
- Access specialist referrals: If necessary, get referrals for further tests or specialist care.
- Medical certificates: For time off work or other documentation needs.
Need a script instantly? Get your prescription sorted within 15 minutes.
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Disclaimer
This content is created for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. For emergencies please immediately contact 000.
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For urgent medical help & in case of emergency,
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Get affordable healthcare on your terms, with quick access to qualified, Australian-registered telehealth doctors & health practitioners, 24/7, 365 days a year. No more searching for ‘doctors near me‘ – Hola connects you instantly.
Address: 79 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000
For urgent medical help & in case of emergency,
call 000.
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