Does GP consultation treat gout?

It may be especially useful for a first attack, repeated episodes or symptoms that are not improving.

During a GP consultation, the clinician may ask when the pain began, which joint is affected, whether it is hot or swollen, and whether you have had similar episodes. They can review medicines and health conditions that influence urate levels or treatment choices. Examination and tests may be considered when gout is uncertain or an infection, injury or another form of arthritis needs to be excluded. Longer-term care may involve discussion of urate-lowering treatment and monitoring, depending on your history.

Write down the start of the flare, its location, swelling, triggers you noticed and any treatment already taken. Bring a complete medicine list, including non-prescription products. Until assessed, protect the joint from pressure, rest it and use a cool wrapped pack if comfortable. Take only medicines as directed for you; do not borrow someone else’s gout treatment. Ask how to use any flare medicine and whether a preventive plan is appropriate.

Get urgent medical help for a hot swollen joint with fever, chills, feeling faint, rapidly spreading redness, a wound or pus, because joint infection can require immediate treatment. Seek prompt care if pain is severe, you cannot bear weight, or the symptoms began after an injury. Contact a clinician if an episode is not settling or keeps returning.

How confident are you that this episode is gout? Do I need tests to exclude infection or another cause? Which flare treatment fits my health conditions and medicines? Should I discuss urate-lowering treatment now? What symptoms should prompt urgent review?