Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by the deposition of monosodium urate crystals in joints and soft tissues, resulting from chronically elevated serum uric acid levels.

How is gout diagnosed?

The gold standard is joint fluid analysis identifying monosodium urate crystals under polarized microscopy.

What uric acid level is considered high?

A serum uric acid level above 6.8 mg/dL is above the saturation point. The ACR treatment target is below 6.0 mg/dL.

What is the fastest way to stop a gout flare?

The ACR recommends colchicine, NSAIDs, or corticosteroids as first-line options for acute gout flares.

What foods trigger gout flares?

High-purine foods like organ meats and certain seafood, alcohol especially beer, and fructose-sweetened beverages.

Gout cannot be cured but can be effectively controlled with urate-lowering therapy to stop flares and dissolve crystal deposits.

Uric Acid Testing - GoutSavvy.com

Understanding Your Blood Test: Uric Acid Numbers Explained

May 28, 2026May 26, 2026 by GoutSavvy Editorial Team

Decoding Your Lab Report: A Patient Guide You have just had blood drawn, and now you are staring at a lab report filled with numbers, abbreviations, and reference ranges. What does it all mean for your gout? Understanding your blood test results empowers you to participate actively in your healthcare and have more productive conversations … Read more

Uric Acid Testing at Home: What You Need to Know About Self-Monitoring

May 28, 2026May 26, 2026 by GoutSavvy Editorial Team

Taking Control of Your Gout with Home Testing If you have gout, you have probably experienced the frustration of waiting for lab results, rearranging your schedule to visit the doctor office, and wondering if your uric acid levels are actually under control between appointments. What if you could check your levels at home, on your … Read more