What tests are used to diagnose gout?

Question (Posted on : 23 Mar 2009 )

Doctor's Response (Posted on : 23 Mar 2009 )

* Medical history and physical examination * Test to measure levels of uric acid in blood * Test to measure levels of uric acid in urineWhile X-rays of extremities (hands and feet) are sometimes useful in the late stages of the disease, X-rays are not usually helpful in the early diagnosis of gout.

Diseases Information

Gout is a condition where the uric acid content in blood raises beyond normal level resulting in painful arthritic attacks and this leads to the formation of tiny crystals of urate which gets deposited on cartilage and other tissues of body. The crystals formed in the joint can lead to inflammati...More

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease, it normally occurs when the cartilage becomes damaged due to aging or due to injury or illness.

The cartilage is designed to cushion the ends of the bones that are located in the joints. This prevents them from rubbing together which...More

News Letters Information

Gout is the disease that results from the overload of uric acid in the body. The excess uric acid gets decomposited in the body tissues especially the joints and cause recurrent attacks of joint inflammation. Gout is considered to be chronic and progressive disease form of arthritis. People with ...More

Diet Information

Fenugreek has been associated with number of health benefits. It is a common herb and used as a condiment for seasoning in Indian homes. This seed when used in cooking imparts a characteristic flavor and tang to food. Fenugreek leaves are well known for their high nutrient content of minerals and...More

Gout is also referred to as metabolic arthritis. It is caused by high levels of uric acid in the body. This uric acid forms crystals in the joints and causes pain and inflammation. Later these crystals can also form stones in kidneys. Uric acid in the body comes from both dietary sources and from...More

Indicators Information

• Double vision

• Blurred vision

• Drooping eyelids

• Slurred speech

• Difficulty swallowing

• Dry mouth

...More

Not all people that have this disease may show signs of the infection but when symptoms do appear, they may take in a variety of forms, including the following:

• Vomiting

<...More

• Intense itching.

• Inflammation, redness and swelling of the skin.

• Swelling in skin.

• Redness in skin.

• Blisters with oozi...More