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Gout - When To Call a Doctor

Call or see your doctor immediately if you have:

  • Severe pain in a single joint that comes on very quickly.
  • Swollen, tender joints with overlying warm, reddened skin.

Watchful waiting

During an acute gout attack, you may be able to relieve some of your discomfort by taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or colchicine and resting the affected joint until the attack eases. You can use ice to reduce the swelling.

Although aspirin is an NSAID, don't take it for gout. Aspirin can actually make gout worse by abruptly changing the uric acid level in the blood.

It is important that you see your doctor even if the pain from gout has stopped. The uric acid buildup that caused your gout attack may still be irritating your joints and could eventually cause serious damage. Your doctor can prescribe medicines that will prevent and even reverse the uric acid buildup.

Who to see

The following health professionals can diagnose and prescribe treatment for gout:

To prepare for your appointment, see the topic Making the Most of Your Appointment.

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: October 13, 2010
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.
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