Conclusions

We hope that if you are unfortunate enough to suffer gout, that this article will improve your understanding of this common disorder and its treatment.

We have tried to convey that this disorder is relatively well-understood, and that life-style modifications may have a role in controlling its manifestations.

However, lifestyle and dietary modifications will in most cases have only a modest benefit, and their potential benefit should be discussed with your doctor.

It seems inadvisable to make drastic changes in how you live your life for little gain, when safe and effective medical treatments are available.

However, an attack of gout often acts as a wake up call for people to review their health, as many of the risk factors for gout, such as obesity, heavy alcohol consumption and high blood pressure, may also be associated with more serious disorders such as diabetes and heart disease.

Not everyone requires long-term treatment for gout, and most sufferers are able to identify precipitants of their attacks and avoid these, and/or treat any attacks with short courses of anti-inflammatory medication.

Few people nowadays should have to continue to suffer the pain and disability of gout; simple measures, safe medications and sensible advice should control the problem in all but the most unlucky of patients.