Gout | Doctor Care Anywhere

What is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis that causes inflammation and intense pain in the joints. It’s most commonly felt in the big toe but can also affect the fingers, wrists, elbows, knees, heels, ankles, and feet.

If you’re experiencing an attack of gout, it’s important to seek medical advice to help manage your symptoms effectively.

What are the symptoms of gout?

Gout is typically characterised by:

Sudden, severe pain in one or more joints – often starting in the big toe.
Swelling and tenderness around the affected joint.
Red, inflamed skin over the joint that may become itchy and start to peel.

Attacks of gout often occur at night. The pain tends to worsen over 24 hours, and an episode can last anywhere from 3 to 10 days. Severe pain may make it impossible to move the joint or even touch it. Some people also experience a fever and feel generally unwell.

What causes gout?

Gout occurs when uric acid leves in the body become too high. Uric acid is a natural chemical produced by the body, but when there’s an excess, it can form tiny crystals around the joints, leading to pain and inflammation.

Factors that increase uric acid levels:

Kidney function problems

Your kidneys might not filter out uric acid effectively.

Diet

Eating foods high in purines (which break down into uric acid).

Excess uric acid production
Some people’s bodies naturally produce more uric acid.

Risk Factors for Gout

Certain lifestyle and health factors can make gout more likely:

Drinking too much alcohol (especially beer).
Not drinking enough water.
Taking diuretics (medications that increase urine production).
Being overweight.
Having conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, psoriasis, or kidney disease.
Being male or a postmenopausal woman.

There’s also evidence that gout can run in families, so genetics may play a role.

Managing gout during an attack

During a flare-up, your doctor or Advanced Clinical Practitioner (ACP) will likely recommend anti-inflammatory medication:

Prescription-strength naproxen or over-the-counter ibuprofen are commonly used.
If symptoms persist, steroid tablets or a steroid injection into the joint may be prescribed.

In addition to medication, you can manage gout symptoms by:

Resting the affected joint and avoiding strenuous activity.
Keeping the joint elevated, cool, and uncovered.
Applying an ice pack wrapped in a towel to the joint to reduce swelling.

Preventing future gout attacks

If gout is a recurring problem, your doctor may prescribe medication to lower uric acid levels. You’ll need to take this medicine regularly to help prevent future flare-ups.

For advice on managing or preventing gout, you can book an online consultation with Doctor Care Anywhere.

How can I avoid gout?

Making simple lifestyle changes can help lower your risk of developing gout. One of the most effective steps is to reduce your intake of foods that are high in purines, such as:

Organ meats: Liver, kidneys.
Red meats: Beef, venison.
Fish: Mackerel, herring, anchovies.
Seafood: Mussels, scallops, oysters.
Yeast extracts: Marmite and similar products.
Alcohol: Especially beer, stout, and port (aim for at least two alcohol-free days per week).