Diagnosis of Gout:
Proper diagnosis is important. Diagnosis is based on physical findings and diagnostic tests including the identification of characteristic crystals. Fluid is extracted from the affected joint and a microscopic examination revealing monosodium urate crystals would be consistent with the diagnosis of gout. Crystals known as tophi may also be found in deposits under the skin. Blood uric acid levels are less useful or definitive. The blood uric acid level can be normal or low during an attack or can be elevated in people who have never had a gout attack.
Treatment of Gout:
Treatment of gout involves medications and lifestyle modifications. Medications include:
NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) - used to decrease pain and inflammation
Corticosteroids - for people who cannot take NSAIDs
Probenecid and sulfinpyrazone - help kidneys eliminate uric acid (sulfinpyrazone is not currently available in the U.S.)
Allopurinol - blocks production of uric acid
Colchicine - for acute gout attacks or as a prophylactic
Lifestyle modifications are important; they include weight management, abstaining from alcohol, and avoiding meats, seafood and other foods high in purines.
Proper diagnosis is important. Diagnosis is based on physical findings and diagnostic tests including the identification of characteristic crystals. Fluid is extracted from the affected joint and a microscopic examination revealing monosodium urate crystals would be consistent with the diagnosis of gout. Crystals known as tophi may also be found in deposits under the skin. Blood uric acid levels are less useful or definitive. The blood uric acid level can be normal or low during an attack or can be elevated in people who have never had a gout attack.
Treatment of Gout:
Treatment of gout involves medications and lifestyle modifications. Medications include:
NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) - used to decrease pain and inflammation
Corticosteroids - for people who cannot take NSAIDs
Probenecid and sulfinpyrazone - help kidneys eliminate uric acid (sulfinpyrazone is not currently available in the U.S.)
Allopurinol - blocks production of uric acid
Colchicine - for acute gout attacks or as a prophylactic
Lifestyle modifications are important; they include weight management, abstaining from alcohol, and avoiding meats, seafood and other foods high in purines.
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