Disclaimer: This guide is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
If you are experiencing an emergency, go to your nearest hospital or call 000.
What is it?
Gout is a common type of arthritis marked by sudden and severe joint pain, swelling, and redness. It develops when uric acid, a natural waste product, builds up in the bloodstream and forms crystals within a joint.
Normally, uric acid dissolves in the blood and is eliminated through the kidneys, but an excess or impaired elimination can lead to crystal formation and gout.
Typically, gout affects the big toe, though it can also impact joints such as the feet, ankles, knees, elbows, wrists, and fingers. Without effective management or if uric acid levels remain high, gout can become chronic, resulting in recurrent flares in the same joint.
Several factors contribute to gout, including:
- genetic predisposition,
- dietary habits (especially foods rich in purines like meat and seafood),
- excessive alcohol consumption (particularly beer),
- obesity,
- and certain medical conditions such as diabetes,
- hypertension,
- and kidney disease.
Symptoms
The condition often presents as acute attacks characterised by intense pain and inflammation that can last days or weeks.
During a gout attack, which frequently begins at night, any joint can be impacted, though the big toe, middle foot joints, ankles, knees, fingers, and elbows are commonly affected.
Affected joints may feel intensely warm, appear red and glossy, and be extremely sensitive to touch. Movement can become severely limited, and as swelling diminishes, the skin may become itchy and flaky.
Early identification and treatment are crucial for effectively managing gout.
Gout in the big toe
How we can help
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Much like a traditional appointment your telehealth doctor will conduct a comprehensive assessment, including:
- pre-existing conditions, family history & lifestyle.
- preferred treatments and ability to access them.
- individualised advice to treat your condition.
- referrals or scripts at the discretion of the doctor.
Why choose doctors on demand?
Talk to a doctor about gout.
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