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Gout - Management
How do I assess someone with gout?
- Confirm gout and exclude alternative diagnoses, especially septic arthritis.
- Assess the severity of the attack (number of joints affected, the person's ability to mobilize, impact on work and functioning).
- Ask about previous attacks and which drugs (if any) the person is taking or has tried.
- Assess risk factors such as medication (e.g. diuretics), alcohol, diet, and obesity.
- Identify any associated conditions (e.g. hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular disease).
- Measure the person's serum uric acid level 4–6 weeks after the acute attack.
In depth
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