What is it?
Urate crystals can inflame a joint or bursa. High blood urate alone does not prove an acute gout attack.
Symptoms and important signs
Sudden pain, redness and swelling; chronic nodules may occur.
How is it assessed?
Fluid analysis may distinguish crystals from infection; review kidney disease and medicines.
Care and treatment options
Treating the attack and long-term urate lowering are different, individual decisions.
When to seek help
A hot swollen joint, especially with fever or a first attack, needs prompt assessment.