What is it?
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by crystals of uric acid forming in a joint. It often affects the big toe, causing sudden, severe attacks of pain and swelling.
What causes it?
- High levels of uric acid in the blood.
- Diet, alcohol, some medicines and kidney problems can contribute.
Common symptoms
- Sudden, intense pain in a joint, often the big toe.
- Redness, warmth and swelling.
- Repeated attacks can damage the joint over time.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis is based on symptoms, blood tests and sometimes testing fluid from the joint. X-rays show any joint damage.
Things you can do now
- Rest and raise the foot during an attack
- Drink plenty of water
- Limit alcohol, sugary drinks and red meat
- Take your long-term medicines as prescribed
Treatment
Treatment is tailored to your individual needs, symptoms and goals. Depending on your situation, it may include medicines to settle attacks, usually managed with your GP or rheumatologist, long-term medicines to lower uric acid, lifestyle changes, a guided injection and surgery for joint damage or large crystal deposits.
Mr Jeyaseelan will talk you through the options that are right for you at your consultation.
When to see a specialist
- Repeated attacks despite treatment
- Lumps of gout crystals (tophi) or damage to the joint
- A hot, swollen joint with fever, which needs urgent assessment to rule out infection
What to expect
Gout is usually well controlled with medicines and lifestyle changes. Surgery is only needed for joint damage or large crystal deposits.
Common questions
Where can I see a specialist about gout & crystal arthritis in London?
Mr Lucky Jeyaseelan, a consultant orthopaedic surgeon who specialises only in the foot and ankle, sees private and insured patients with gout & crystal arthritis at Align Orthopaedics on Harley Street, The London Clinic on Devonshire Place, HCA London Bridge Hospital, HCA UK at The Shard, HCA UK City of London on Old Broad Street and The Holly Hospital in Buckhurst Hill, Essex. See all clinic locations or request an appointment.
Do I need a GP referral?
Self-funding patients can book directly, though a GP letter is helpful. Most insurers need a GP referral before they authorise your consultation, so check with yours first.
This information is general and is not a substitute for a medical consultation. Your diagnosis and treatment plan will be tailored to you.