Gout in the elbow: symptoms and what to do

Gout is an inflammatory arthritis in which urate crystals collect inside a joint. An elbow flare may make the skin look red and feel hot, with tenderness that makes leaning on the arm or bending it difficult. A firm lump near the elbow can sometimes be a tophus, a collection of urate that develops over time. Elbow symptoms can also come from bursitis, an injury, infection or another form of arthritis, so appearance alone cannot confirm gout. A clinician may examine the joint, review your history and use blood tests or fluid from the joint when the diagnosis is uncertain.

Rest the arm in a comfortable position and avoid pressure on the elbow. A wrapped cold pack for short periods may ease discomfort; keep a cloth between the pack and skin. Take only medicines recommended for you, because some anti-inflammatory treatments may be unsuitable with kidney disease, stomach problems, blood thinners or other conditions. Do not stop long-term urate-lowering treatment during a flare unless your prescriber tells you to. Follow-up can help reduce future attacks and address factors such as kidney health or weight.

Arrange prompt medical assessment for a new hot, swollen elbow, especially if the pain is severe or movement is limited. Seek urgent care if fever, chills, feeling very unwell, rapidly spreading redness, a wound or drainage occurs, because infection can affect a joint and needs prompt treatment. Contact your clinician if attacks recur, a lump grows, or symptoms do not settle with the agreed plan.

Could this be gout, bursitis, infection or an injury? Do I need joint-fluid testing? Which flare medicines fit my kidney function and other medicines? How will we prevent further attacks?