Gout

More than 9 million Americans currently have gout, a painful type of arthritis. At Millcreek Rheumatology, esteemed rheumatologist David Shaskey, MD, offers expert care for gout and all other inflammatory diseases in the Salt Lake City, Utah, office. If you’re experiencing joint pain, stiff movement, or other issues, there are treatments that can minimize your pain and reduce your flare-ups so you can lead a fulfilling life. Book an appointment online or call the office for help today.

What is gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis. It usually causes painful swelling in one joint, most often the big toe. Gout occurs in bouts (attacks), which can last as long as a few weeks. However, with treatment, you can often shorten attacks to just a few days and prevent many future attacks.

What are the symptoms of gout?  

Gout can cause symptoms in and around a joint, including:

• Intense pain
• Limited movement
• Swelling
• Redness 
• Extreme sensitivity

Gout symptoms usually come on suddenly, usually during the night. Many people wake up due to the pain. 

Gout attacks can happen rarely (once or twice a year) or far more frequently. 

How does gout develop?

During digestion, your body breaks down purines (a natural chemical in your body and some foods). The process creates uric acid (a waste product). 

Uric acid can accumulate in the blood, leading to gout. However, not every person with high uric acid levels develops gout. You have a higher risk of gout if you carry extra weight or have high blood pressure (hypertension), diabetes, or high cholesterol. 

Because some of these conditions can run in families, gout sometimes has a genetic component. 

How is gout diagnosed?

At Millcreek Rheumatology, Dr. Shaskey examines your joint and evaluates your symptoms. 

He may use a slim needle to withdraw fluid from your affected joint. Microscopic study of this fluid can show uric acid crystals. He also looks for tophi, crystal deposits under the skin that can appear in late-stage gout. You may need a blood test as well. 

You could need an ultrasound, X-rays, or dual-energy computed tomography (CT). These tests can show gout even in its earlier stages. 

How is gout treated?

Gout treatment depends on your situation and symptoms. Dr. Shaskey often treats flare-ups with anti-inflammatory medications like colchicine, ibuprofen, or steroids, all medications that fight inflammation and ease pain and swelling. 

You may need daily long-term medication to lower uric acid levels, particularly if you have recurrent gout flare-ups. 

Further, Dr. Shaskey can help you implement a gout diet. This involves reducing your intake of purine-containing foods like red meat and seafood and reducing alcohol intake since it can trigger flare-ups. 

At Millcreek Rheumatology, Dr. Shaskey can help you manage gout so it won’t limit your lifestyle. Book your appointment through the online booking link or call the office today.