Acute Gout

Are you looking for an online consultation for Gout? GetCareMD is here to help!
Learn all about the condition and how GetCareMD can help.

What is Gout?

Gout is a painful form of inflammatory arthritis caused by high levels of uric acid in the blood. This buildup forms sharp crystals, often in the joints of the foot—especially the big toe. Gout flares can come on suddenly, leading to intense pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness that may feel like your joint is on fire.

Symptoms of Gout

Gout flares can start suddenly and may last from a few days to several weeks. Between flares, symptoms may disappear completely for weeks or even months, making the condition seem inactive.

If you’re experiencing acute gout, you may notice:

• Intense joint pain, especially in the big toe
• Reduced joint mobility or stiffness
• Lingering discomfort in affected joints
• Swelling, redness, and inflammation
• A sensation of heat — joints may feel like they’re burning

If these symptoms sound familiar, don’t wait. Schedule an online consultation for Gout with a provider at GetCareMD and start feeling better from the comfort of your home.

Am I at Risk for Gout?

Gout is more common in men, but postmenopausal women are also at risk due to increased uric acid levels after menopause.

You may be at higher risk for developing Gout if:

• You are overweight, which can lead to excess uric acid production
• Your diet includes red meat, sugary drinks, or high-fructose foods — alcohol also increases your risk
• You’ve recently had surgery or vaccinations, which can sometimes trigger flares
• You have a family history of Gout
• You suffer from health conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney or heart disease, or metabolic syndrome
• You take certain medications, such as aspirin, diuretics, ACE inhibitors, or beta-blockers, which may raise uric acid levels

If any of these apply to you, it’s time to take action. Schedule an online consultation for Gout with the trusted providers at GetCareMD for expert evaluation and personalized treatment.

Complications

While Gout is very treatable, leaving it unmanaged can lead to serious health complications, including:

• Joint Damage: Ongoing inflammation can cause stiffness and long-term damage to joints and cartilage.
• Tophi Formation: Hardened urate crystals (called tophi) can build up under the skin, causing severe pain, visible lumps, and joint deformity if not addressed.
• Kidney Stones: Excess uric acid can form crystals in the kidneys, leading to painful kidney stones.
• Kidney Disease or Failure: If left untreated, urate buildup may scar the kidneys over time, increasing the risk of chronic kidney disease or even kidney failure.

Early diagnosis and treatment can help you avoid these complications. Don’t wait—seek proper care for Gout to protect your long-term health.

Prevention and Precaution

If you’re at risk of developing Gout, doctors at GetCareMD may recommend the following preventive steps:

• Limit alcohol intake to help control uric acid levels.
• Increase water and fluid intake to flush out excess uric acid.
• Maintain a healthy weight through regular exercise and a balanced diet.
• Reduce consumption of Gout-triggering foods, such as red meat, shellfish, and sugary drinks.
• Take prescribed medications that help lower uric acid levels and prevent flare-ups.

Following these lifestyle changes and medical recommendations can significantly reduce your chances of experiencing painful Gout attacks.

Treating Gout

At GetCareMD, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes to manage Gout flares and prevent them from returning:

• Limit alcohol consumption to keep uric acid levels under control.
• Stay hydrated to help flush out excess uric acid.
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on joints.
• Avoid Gout-triggering foods like red meat, shellfish, and sugary beverages.
• Incorporate uric acid-lowering foods, such as cherries and low-fat dairy products, into your diet.
• Additionally, your healthcare provider may prescribe:
• NSAIDs like ibuprofen or corticosteroids to manage pain during flares.
• Medications like allopurinol or pegloticase to reduce uric acid levels in the blood.

Through your Online Consultation for Gout, we will identify the underlying cause and provide a tailored treatment plan. Our experienced rheumatologists will ensure that all your concerns are addressed, and you receive effective treatment from the comfort of your home.

Book an online consultation today and start your journey toward effective Gout management with GetCareMD!