Each year on May 22, the medical community recognizes Gout Awareness Day, a time to raise awareness about one of the most painful forms of arthritis. Gout, often misunderstood and underdiagnosed, affects millions of people worldwide. Despite its reputation as an “old-fashioned” disease, gout is very much a modern concern—and its prevalence is rising.
At Pacific Arthritis, we specialize in the diagnosis and management of rheumatic diseases like gout. In recognition of Gout Awareness Day, we’re shedding light on the causes and symptoms of gout flares, exploring treatment options, and offering tips for preventing future attacks. Whether you’ve been living with gout for years or are newly diagnosed, understanding your condition is the first step toward long-term relief.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis caused by high levels of uric acid in the blood (a condition called hyperuricemia). When excess uric acid builds up, it can form sharp crystals in the joints, triggering sudden and severe pain. The condition most commonly affects the big toe, but it can also strike the ankles, knees, wrists, and fingers.
Gout typically presents in flares—episodes of intense pain, swelling, warmth, and redness in the affected joint. These flares can last a few days or over a week and may recur sporadically or frequently if not properly managed.
What Causes Gout Flares?
Gout flares are often triggered by lifestyle or dietary factors, although genetics and other health conditions can also contribute. Common flare triggers include:
- High-purine foods: Red meat, shellfish, and organ meats
- Alcohol: Especially beer and spirits
- Sugary drinks: Especially those containing high fructose corn syrup
- Dehydration: Lack of water concentrates uric acid in the blood
- Crash diets or fasting
- Certain medications: Diuretics, aspirin, and some blood pressure drugs
Flare frequency and severity vary from person to person. Without proper treatment, flares can become more frequent and lead to chronic joint damage and complications such as tophi (hard uric acid deposits) or kidney stones.
Recognizing the Signs of a Gout Flare
A gout flare often comes on suddenly, usually at night, and can be mistaken for an injury or infection. Symptoms typically include:
- Sudden, intense joint pain (often in the big toe)
- Swelling, redness, and warmth in the joint
- Tenderness to the point that even bedsheets feel painful
- Limited range of motion
If you experience these symptoms for the first time, it’s essential to consult with a rheumatologist for a proper diagnosis and to begin treatment as early as possible.
Effective Gout Treatment Options
At Pacific Arthritis, we tailor gout treatment plans to each individual’s needs—addressing both acute flare management and long-term uric acid control.
1. Medications for Flare Relief
During a gout attack, the goal is to reduce inflammation and pain quickly. Options include:
- NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen or naproxen)
- Colchicine, a gout-specific anti-inflammatory
- Corticosteroids, either oral or injected into the affected joint
2. Uric Acid-Lowering Therapies
For patients with frequent flares or chronically elevated uric acid levels, long-term medications may be prescribed, such as:
- Allopurinol or febuxostat, which reduce uric acid production
- Probenecid, which helps the kidneys excrete more uric acid
Maintaining a target serum uric acid level below 6.0 mg/dL can significantly reduce the risk of future flares.
3. Ultrasound-Guided Injections
For persistent or severe joint inflammation, we offer ultrasound-guided corticosteroid injections. This precise technique ensures that medication is delivered directly to the affected joint for faster, targeted relief.
4. Infusion Therapy
In complex or treatment-resistant cases, infusion therapy may be used to administer powerful anti-inflammatory medications or biologics. This is particularly beneficial for patients with overlapping inflammatory arthritis or kidney complications that limit other treatments.
Preventing Future Gout Flares
The good news is that gout is one of the most treatable forms of arthritis—especially when patients commit to lifestyle changes and preventive care.
Tips for Gout Flare Prevention:
- Stay Hydrated: Aim for at least 8 cups of water per day.
- Limit High-Purine Foods: Cut back on red meat, shellfish, and organ meats.
- Reduce Alcohol Intake: Especially beer and hard liquor.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity increases uric acid production.
- Exercise Regularly: Moderate exercise helps manage weight and improve circulation.
- Monitor Your Uric Acid Levels: Keep regular appointments with your rheumatologist and lab testing as recommended.
The Importance of Gout Awareness Day
Gout Awareness Day is a reminder that this condition is not just a matter of “eating too much meat.” It is a real and serious medical issue that can significantly affect your quality of life if left untreated. Greater awareness helps reduce stigma, encourages early diagnosis, and connects patients with the care they need.
At Pacific Arthritis, we believe in empowering our patients with education and proactive care. Our Los Angeles and Santa Monica offices provide cutting-edge treatments and personalized support for managing gout and other types of arthritis.
Conclusion
Gout can be incredibly painful, but it doesn’t have to control your life. With the right care, flare-ups can be minimized—or even eliminated—and joint health can be preserved for the long term. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or dealing with recurring flares, Gout Awareness Day is a perfect opportunity to take your health into your own hands.
If you’re struggling with gout or are ready to explore treatment options like infusion therapy or ultrasound-guided joint injections, contact Pacific Arthritis today at (310) 297-9221 to schedule a consultation. We’re here to help you take the next step toward lasting relief and healthier living.
