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This page/column contains information which may be of interest to consumers. The information is based on articles which appear in Australian Prescriber. As Australian Prescriber is written for health professionals, you should discuss any issues raised by this page/column with your doctor or pharmacist. They will be able to give a more detailed answer to your questions by reading the main article.
Australian Prescriber is unable to comment on individual cases or give second opinions.
Australian Prescriber Vol. 27 No. 1 2004
Gout
Gout is a type of arthritis. It usually affects the small joints of the feet. The inflammation is a reaction to crystals inside the joint. These crystals form when there is too much of a substance called uric acid in the blood.
As gout is very painful, painkillers are usually needed. The doctor will check that the pain is not caused by infection and may take a sample of fluid from inside the joint.
The attack of gout usually settles in a few days. Some patients then need to take a medicine to reduce the amount of uric acid in the blood. This treatment usually has to be taken for life.
