Gout Clinic

Welcome to the Gout Clinic at Emirates Hospitals Group. Our clinic is dedicated to providing comprehensive care and specialized treatment for gout, a form of inflammatory arthritis characterized by sudden and severe pain in the joints. Our expert team of rheumatologists and support staff is committed to helping you manage your gout symptoms effectively and improve your quality of life through personalized treatment plans.

What is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints. This buildup leads to intense pain, swelling, and redness, most commonly affecting the big toe but potentially impacting other joints such as the ankles, knees, and elbows. Gout attacks can be sudden and severe, often occurring at night, and can significantly affect daily activities and overall well-being.

At our Gout Clinic, we offer a range of treatments aimed at managing symptoms, reducing uric acid levels, and preventing future attacks:

• Medications
• Lifestyle Modifications: Guidance on dietary changes, weight management, and alcohol consumption to help control uric acid levels and reduce the risk of flare-ups.
• Dietary Counseling: Recommendations on foods to avoid (such as red meats and shellfish) and foods that can help lower uric acid levels.
• Patient Education: Resources and support to help you understand gout, its triggers, and effective management strategies.

Causes of Gout

Gout is caused by an excess of uric acid in the blood, which forms crystals in the joints. Contributing factors include:

• Genetics: A family history of gout can increase the risk of developing the condition.
• Diet: High intake of purine-rich foods, such as red meat, seafood, and sugary beverages, can elevate uric acid levels.
• Obesity: Excess body weight can increase uric acid production and decrease the body’s ability to eliminate it.
• Medical Conditions: Conditions such as kidney disease or metabolic syndrome can contribute to higher uric acid levels.

Gout Symptoms

The symptoms of gout can vary but typically include:

• Severe Joint Pain: Intense pain in the affected joint, often starting suddenly, and usually occurring at night.
• Swelling and Redness: The affected joint may become swollen, warm, and red.
• Tenderness: The joint may be extremely sensitive to touch.
• Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty moving the affected joint due to pain and swelling.

Gout Diagnosis

Diagnosing gout involves several steps:

• Medical History and Physical Examination: Evaluation of symptoms and physical examination of the affected joint.
• Blood Tests: Measurement of uric acid levels in the blood to help diagnose and monitor the condition.
• Joint Fluid Analysis: Aspiration of joint fluid for microscopic examination to identify uric acid crystals.
• Imaging Studies: X-rays or ultrasound may be used to assess joint damage and rule out other conditions.

Gout Recovery and Management

Effective management of gout involves a combination of treatments and lifestyle adjustments:

• Ongoing Monitoring: Regular follow-up appointments to monitor uric acid levels and adjust treatment as needed.
• Lifestyle and Dietary Changes: Adopting a healthy lifestyle and dietary habits to help control uric acid levels and prevent future attacks.
• Medication Adherence: Ensuring consistent use of prescribed medications to manage symptoms and prevent flare-ups.