Gout

Expert diagnosis and personalized treatment at Arthritis Care of Los Angeles.

What is Gout?

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. It typically causes sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and swelling, most often in the big toe. Gout occurs when the body produces too much uric acid or cannot remove it efficiently enough. Over time, untreated gout can lead to chronic joint damage, kidney stones, and deposits of uric acid crystals under the skin called tophi. The good news is that gout is one of the most treatable forms of arthritis.

Common Symptoms

Sudden, intense joint pain (often waking you at night)
Severe swelling and redness in the affected joint
Warmth and tenderness in the joint
Most commonly affects the big toe, but can occur in ankles, knees, wrists, and fingers
Limited range of motion during attacks
Attacks that last days to weeks if untreated
Lingering discomfort after severe pain subsides
Visible lumps (tophi) near joints in advanced cases

Experiencing these symptoms? Get expert care today.

How is Gout Diagnosed?

Gout is diagnosed through a combination of clinical evaluation, blood tests measuring uric acid levels, and joint fluid analysis. The gold standard for diagnosis is identifying uric acid crystals in fluid drawn from an affected joint. Imaging studies such as X-rays, ultrasound, or dual-energy CT scans may also be used. Dr. Forouzesh will also look for underlying conditions that contribute to high uric acid levels.

Treatment Options

Anti-Inflammatory Medications

Colchicine, NSAIDs, or corticosteroids to quickly relieve pain and inflammation during acute gout attacks.

Urate-Lowering Therapy

Medications like allopurinol or febuxostat that lower uric acid levels to prevent future attacks and dissolve existing crystal deposits.

Biologic Therapies

IL-1 inhibitors for patients who cannot tolerate standard treatments or have frequent, difficult-to-control flares.

Dietary Modifications

Guidance on reducing purine-rich foods (red meat, shellfish, organ meats), limiting alcohol and sugary drinks, and staying well-hydrated.

Pegloticase Infusions

For severe, treatment-resistant gout, pegloticase infusions can rapidly lower uric acid levels and dissolve tophi.

Key Statistics

9.2 Million

Americans affected by gout

Source: Arthritis Foundation

More common in men than women

Source: NIH/NIAMS

Of U.S. adults have gout

Source: American College of Rheumatology

Frequently Asked Questions

Gout is caused by elevated levels of uric acid in the blood (hyperuricemia). When uric acid levels are too high, crystals form in the joints and surrounding tissue, triggering intense inflammation. Genetics, diet, obesity, certain medications, and kidney function all play a role.

While gout cannot be cured in the traditional sense, it can be extremely well-controlled. With proper urate-lowering medication and lifestyle changes, most patients can prevent future attacks entirely and dissolve existing crystal deposits.

Limit red meat, organ meats, shellfish, alcohol (especially beer), and beverages sweetened with fructose. A balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and low-fat dairy can help manage uric acid levels.

While the big toe is the most common site, gout can affect any joint including ankles, knees, wrists, fingers, and elbows. Some patients experience gout in multiple joints simultaneously.

Ready to Get Expert Care?

Schedule your appointment with Dr. Solomon Forouzesh, MD, FACP, FACR — a board-certified rheumatologist with 50++ years of expertise in arthritis and autoimmune diseases.

Call (310) 204-6811

Culver City Office

9808 Venice Blvd, Suite 604

Culver City, CA 90232

(310) 204-6811

Encino Office

5400 Balboa Blvd, Suite 103

Encino, CA 91316

(310) 204-6811