Best Doctors for Gout in Bangalore

Types/Stages of Gout

Understanding the different stages of gout is critical for managing the disease effectively:

• Asymptomatic Gout (Asymptomatic Hyperuricemia): In this stage, high uric acid levels are observed in the blood without any noticeable signs.

• Acute Gout: This stage involves sudden severe pain due to urate crystal formation. Typically affecting one joint at a time, this stage requires immediate medical attention.

• Intercritical Gout (Interval Gout): This period involves no symptoms but continued urate crystal buildup can lead to future attacks and potential joint damage.

• Chronic Tophaceous Gout: In this final stage, large crystals known as tophi form in the joints leading to permanent structural changes and joint damage.

Symptoms of Gout

The symptoms of gout can vary from patient to patient but typically include:

• Intense pain often starts with the big toe and then spreads to other joints

• Affected joints become red, swollen, and tender

• Limited range of motion

• Soreness and discomfort post an acute gout attack

Tests to Diagnose Gout

Doctors for uric acid and joint inflammation specialists diagnose gout through a series of tests:

• Uric Acid Blood Test: This test measures the levels of uric acid in the blood.

• Joint Aspiration: Involves extracting and examining joint fluid for urate crystals.

• X-rays: Used to detect joint damage and tophi.

• Dual Energy CT Scan: A type of CT scan that can detect urate crystals in the joints.

• Ultrasound: Can identify urate crystals in affected joints.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Gout at Apollo Hospitals in Bangalore

The best specialist for gout treatment ensure holistic care at Apollo Hospitals, Bangalore to treat gout:

• Medications: Drugs that help manage pain, and inflammation during acute attacks or lower uric acid levels to avoid further attacks.

• Dietary Changes: Limiting purine-rich foods, staying well-hydrated, and maintaining a healthy weight can aid significantly in managing gout.

• Surgical Options: While rarely needed, it might include joint surgery in severe cases of joint damage.