Gout Guide
What it is
Gout is an inflammatory arthritis caused by monosodium urate crystal deposition from persistent hyperuricemia.
Acute flare management
- NSAID, colchicine, or corticosteroid depending on patient-specific risk and comorbidity.
- Start early for best symptom control.
Chronic prevention
- Urate-lowering therapy when indicated (e.g., recurrent flares, tophi, CKD context).
- Treat-to-target serum urate approach, typically under 6 mg/dL.
Non-pharmacologic care
- Weight reduction when appropriate
- Limit alcohol excess and high-purine dietary triggers
- Improve hydration consistency
Monitoring and follow-up
- Serum urate trends, flare frequency, medication tolerance, and renal function