Signs and Symptoms
Gout leads to attacks, or flares, that appear suddenly with hot, red, or swollen joints. The joints can be so painful that they hurt to move. Sometimes the joints look like they are infected, even though they are not.
Gout crystals can form white bumps called “tophi,” which are often visible under the skin. These bumps are not painful.
Diagnosing Gout
The diagnosis for gout is made based on a physical examination by your doctor, x-rays, and lab tests. You will be asked about your symptoms and how gout has changed your activities. Because medications and other diseases can cause gout, you will be asked to provide a medical history and a medication list.
Uric acid does not show up on x-rays, but some bone changes can be visible with gout. If needed, fluid from the joint can be removed with a needle to confirm the gout diagnosis. Blood tests may be ordered to check for infection as well to check your uric acid levels.
Treatment
When a painful episode of gout begins, the goal is to decrease swelling, redness, and pain. New episodes of gout are often treated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medication or a medicine called colchicine. Steroid pills and shots may be used to treat gout as well.
Episodes of gout often come and go. When the gout episodes are infrequent, an NSAID or colchicine can be used as needed. For more frequent gout episodes, other medications can be given that are managed by your primary care doctor or a rheumatologist.
Gout is usually treated without surgery. There are medicines, splints, and compression modalities to help swelling and lessen the gout pain. If your gout has worn out the joints, or if tendons have been hurt, surgery may be needed.
If gout is not treated, the inflammation can cause damage to joints and tendons. Crystal deposits on tendons can cause the skin to wear down, which can lead to infection. In addition, tendons can tear, which can lead to loss of function.
UofL Physicians – Kleinert Kutz Hand Care is equipped to help you determine the best treatment plan for your gout.
For more information or to schedule an appointment please contact us at (502) 561-4263 or 1-800-477-4263. To request an appointment online, use our Appointment Request Form.
