Gout Information

If you think you are suffering from gout, it is important to secure a diagnosis as early as possible. Gout is one of the easiest forms of arthritis to treat. Remember that forming a close relationship with your doctor will be of benefit to you both - you will feel supported and understood and your doctor will have a better idea of the most suitable treatment options.

Preparing to see your doctor

If you are reading this guide, you probably either suspect you have gout or you already have a diagnosis. For those who suspect, it may be helpful to know the official diagnostic criteria.

Diagnostic criteria

The American College of Rheumatology has defined the official criteria for the diagnosis of gout. Six or more of the following 11 criteria should be met to give a diagnosis:

You must have suffered more than one acute attack of active arthritis.
Maximum inflammation must develop within one day.
You must have suffered at least one attack of oligoarthritis - a type of arthritis that affects children, linked with an eye disease called chronic iridocyclitis.
Redness must be observed over the affected joint.
The big-toe joint must be painful and/or swollen.
Your first attack must be on