"How Can I Tell if I Have Gout?"

Methods to Determine Gout

There are various ways to diagnose gout, with common methods including observing symptoms and undergoing relevant examinations. If you suspect you have gout, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and undergo treatment under the guidance of a doctor.

I. Observing Symptoms:

1. Acute Attack Phase: If you experience symptoms of redness, swelling, heat, and severe pain in your joints, which peak within 24 hours, it is typically indicative of gout caused by uric acid crystals depositing in the joints.

2. Remission Phase: If there are no significant discomforts, only mild joint stiffness or limited mobility, it is generally not gout.

II. Undergoing Relevant Examinations:

1. Blood Routine Test: Detects uric acid levels in the blood to ascertain the presence of hyperuricemia.

2. C-Reactive Protein (CRP): Assists in diagnosing the occurrence and progression of gouty nephropathy.

3. B-Mode Ultrasound: Reveals the presence of large amounts of urate crystal deposits around the joints, aiding in the diagnosis of gout.

4. X-ray Examination: Demonstrates soft tissue swelling and bone decalcification, which are crucial for early gout diagnosis.

In addition to the above examinations, uric acid measurement can be performed upon doctor's recommendation for further confirmation. This involves drawing venous blood for testing to obtain accurate results.

For individuals suspected of having gout, it is also crucial to avoid high-purine foods such as seafood, animal viscera, and soy products in daily life to prevent exacerbating the condition.