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What is gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis that causes painful, hot, swollen and stiff joints. It often affects the big toe and parts of the foot.

Normally, the body gets rid of a waste product called uric acid by passing it through urine. Sometimes, however, the body cannot get rid of uric acid. When this happens, uric acid builds up and forms very sharp crystals (much like icicles or needles). These crystals can get stuck in the spaces between your joints and cause painful arthritis.

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Services are available at MinuteClinic (virtual care also available) and CVS Pharmacy®

Insurance and pricing

Most insurance accepted. Check your coverage or estimate the cost of your visit if you’re uninsured or prefer to pay out-of-pocket.

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What symptoms can occur with gout?

Pain is the most obvious symptom of gout, but lots of things can cause pain. Compared to other types of arthritis pain, gout is extremely painful but only affects a single joint at a time. It is nearly impossible to walk on or even put weight on a foot that has gout. Other symptoms of gout include:

  • Joints that are warm to the touch
  • Lumps over painful joints
  • Redness of affected joints
  • Stiff joints

Even though the base of the big toe is a common place for gout to attack, other joints can be affected such as:

  • Ankles
  • Arch of the foot (your instep)
  • Elbows
  • Fingers
  • Heels
  • Knees
  • Wrists

Getting help

A MinuteClinic provider can discuss your symptoms and health history. They can examine you and develop a treatment plan.

  1. You may have to answer a few questions about symptoms to help us prepare for your visit prior to scheduling your appointment.

  2. Check-in varies depending on how you scheduled your appointment:

    If you made your appointment online:
    Check in using the email or text message we sent to confirm your appointment. If you prefer to check in using the electronic kiosk, make sure you have your confirmation code.

    If you made your appointment in the clinic:
    Sign in at the electronic kiosk.

    If you made a MinuteClinic Virtual Care® appointment:
    To join your virtual visit, use the link in the email or text message we sent you to confirm your appointment. Please join 15 minutes before your scheduled visit time. You will need your date of birth and ZIP code to join the visit.

  3. When it's time for your appointment, a provider will call your name.
  4. Your provider will conduct a thorough examination based on your reason for visit, presenting symptoms and health history. Charges will be based on examination and services provided during the visit.
  5. At the end of your visit, you are provided with a visit summary, receipt and educational material about your diagnosis. At your request, we can send your primary care provider information about your visit.

Gout causes, symptoms and treatment

Gout has been around since ancient times and is sometimes called the “disease of kings.” People have long believed that gout is caused by excess eating and drinking, particularly high-sugar foods and wine. While alcohol can contribute to the development of gout, it is not the only thing that can cause the problem. Risk factors for gout include:

  • Alcohol intake
  • Certain medications
  • Crash diets
  • Dehydration
  • Food high in fructose (fruit sugar)
  • Inherited traits
  • Joint injury
  • Red meat
  • Shellfish
  • Stress
  • Sudden infection
  • Sugary drinks

Gout prevention

During acute gout attacks, pain relief is achieved by helping your body get rid of the crystals that cause the problem.

If you think you have gout and are having an acute attack, do not wait. If you’re evaluated and treated by a medical professional at the beginning of your attack, you have a better chance of getting complete pain relief.

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IMPORTANT! PLEASE READ: This material is for reference only and should not be used to determine treatment for specific medical conditions. Please visit a health care provider for evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of any symptoms you may be experiencing. If you're experiencing a medical emergency, please dial 911 or visit your local emergency department.

 

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