Gout and high uric acid: what it is

Gout is a painful joint condition caused by uric acid crystals building up in and around a joint. Uric acid is a normal waste product, but when the level in the blood stays high, crystals can form.

An attack usually comes on suddenly, often at night, and most often affects the big toe. A high uric acid result on its own is not gout: many people with a high level never have an attack.

Gout and high uric acid: common signs

Sudden, severe pain in a joint, often the big toe, ankle or knee
The joint becomes red, hot, swollen and too tender to touch
An attack that builds over hours and settles over several days to two weeks
Repeated attacks, sometimes in more than one joint
Hard lumps under the skin (tophi) in long-standing, untreated gout

Gout and high uric acid: how a rheumatologist helps

Confirming that the pain is gout, because other problems can look the same, including joint infection, which needs urgent care.

Treating the attack quickly with suitable medicines, chosen with your other health conditions and kidney function in mind.

Planning long-term care if attacks keep returning or the uric acid level stays high. Medicines that lower uric acid are started and adjusted slowly, with regular blood tests. Do not start or stop them in the middle of an attack without advice.

Practical advice on fluids, alcohol (especially beer), sweet fizzy drinks, red meat and organ meats, and weight. Diet alone rarely controls gout, but it helps.

Seek urgent medical care if you notice:

A hot, swollen joint with fever or chills (possible joint infection)
Pain so severe that you cannot use the limb
A first severe attack with no known cause

In an emergency call 1122 or go to the nearest emergency department.

Related conditions

Plan your visit

See what to bring to your first visit, then choose a clinic consultation in Rawalpindi or a video consultation.

This page is general information for awareness. It is not a diagnosis or treatment advice.