MY gout GIVES ME DAYS OFF I DIDN’T ASK FOR
Gout can be a lifelong disease that, for some people, can be progressive. That means it may get worse over time if its root cause, high uric acid, is not addressed. If it does get worse, it can become a more serious, chronic form of the disease known as uncontrolled gout.
When Is Gout Considered Uncontrolled Gout?
When someone has uncontrolled gout, it means they…
Have uric acid levels that remain high despite being treated with uric acid-lowering medications,
Have 2 or more gout flares per year,
Have visible, rock-like bumps (tophi) on their joints that don’t go away.
Uncontrolled gout may also be referred to as advanced gout, chronic gout, tophaceous gout, progressive gout, or severe gout.
What Levels of Uric Acid Are Considered High?
When your uric acid levels stay above 6.8 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL), you’re considered to have hyperuricemia (hahy-per-yoor-uh-see-mee-uh), which is the biggest risk factor for developing gout and for gout getting worse. Your gout specialist, like a rheumatologist or nephrologist, can check your uric acid levels with a blood test.
Setting the Record Straight: Uncontrolled Gout Is Not Your Fault
There are many factors that can play a role in how your body makes and gets rid of uric acid, and ultimately, developing gout and gout disease progression. Some of these factors may include:
- Genetics/family history
- Underlying medical conditions, such as obesity, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease
- High uric acid levels despite taking gout medication(s) to lower uric acid
Even when you change your diet and lifestyle and take prescription medication, gout can continue to get worse.
Are You Ready to Talk to Your Gout Specialist About Your Uric Acid Levels?
Asking these 3 questions at your next visit will help get the conversation started.
- What are my uric acid levels?
- Can you order a blood test to check?
- What are my treatment options that may help get my levels to where they need to be?