Pharmacy Clinical Pearl of the Day: Gout

January 28, 2022

Article

Gout is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness in one or more joints, most often in the big toe.

Clinical Pearl of the Day: Gout

Gout is a common and complex form of arthritis that can affect anyone.

Insight:

Gout is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness in one or more joints, most often in the big toe.
An attack of gout can occur suddenly, often waking people up in the middle of the night with the sensation that their big toe is on fire.
The affected joint is hot, swollen, and so tender that even the weight of the bedsheet on it may seem intolerable.
Symptoms include intense joint pain, lingering discomfort, inflammation and redness, and limited range of motion.
Risk factors include age, diet, medical conditions, and family history.
Diagnosis may include blood test, joint fluid test, X-ray imaging, and ultrasound.
Treatment options include medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, colchicine, corticosteroids, allopurinol, uloric, and probenecid.

Sources:

Gout - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic