Gout

Uric acid is a waste product from the digestion of protein. High levels can lead to excess uric acid being deposited as crystals in the tissues of the body. When this occurs in joints it causes the painful condition known as gout.

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis characterised by recurrent attacks of a red, tender, hot, and swollen joint.  Pain typically comes on rapidly in less than twelve hours. The joint at the base of the big toe is affected in about half of cases

Gout occurs due a combination of genetic factors and diet.    Studies have shown that Gout occurs more commonly in those who eat a lot of meat, drink a lot of beer, or are overweight.

About 2% of people will have gout at some point in their lives but it is most prevalent in older men.

We test for the level of Uric acid in the blood.