Can I consult with a doctor on Laso MD regarding my gout?

Absolutely. A healthcare professional will discuss the symptoms and indications of your gout, along with your medical history.

In certain instances, the healthcare provider may be able to diagnose gout based on the symptoms and the appearance of the affected area. Alternatively, additional tests may be recommended to further confirm a gout diagnosis.

Once diagnosed, the healthcare provider can recommend suitable gout treatments based on the severity of the flare-up.ç

 

Can I receive a prescription on Laso MD?

Certainly, our physicians can prescribe gout medications online during your consultation. Upon accepting a gout prescription, you’ll have the option to pick it up from any pharmacy or have it delivered directly to your doorstep at no extra charge.

 

What is gout?

Gout is a prevalent and intricate form of arthritis primarily affecting joints and soft tissues. It results from hyperuricemia, characterized by excess uric acid in the blood, leading to deposits of monosodium urate (MSU) crystals in joints, tendons, bursae, and soft tissues.

While the initial signs often manifest in the big toe (in approximately 50% of cases), gout symptoms can also impact other areas such as fingers, toes, knees, midtarsal, wrists, elbows, and ankles. This painful condition is on the rise, paralleling the increasing obesity epidemic in Canada and the United States.

 

What are the symptoms of gout?

Gout symptoms typically appear suddenly, with increased frequency at night. Intense joint pain, notably in the big toe, is a common indicator. The pain can be so severe that even the gentle touch of a bed sheet can cause discomfort. While most prevalent in the big toe, gout can affect various joints, with lingering pain lasting days or weeks after the initial severe symptoms subside.

Inflammation and redness at the affected area, accompanied by warmth to the touch, are frequent signs of gout. As the condition progresses, gout can lead to a reduction in joint range of motion due to structural changes, resulting in chronic symptoms.

 

What causes gout?

Gout is primarily caused by the accumulation of uric acid and the formation of MSU crystals in soft tissues and joints. The body produces uric acid and urate crystals by breaking down purines found in certain foods, drinks, and naturally occurring substances in the body.

Various environmental, medical, and lifestyle factors contribute to gout flare-ups, including obesity, consumption of purine-rich foods, excessive alcohol intake, overeating, prolonged fasting, dehydration, hypertension, diabetes, heart diseases, kidney diseases, certain medications, family history, age, and recent physical trauma or surgery.

 

How is gout diagnosed?

A healthcare provider can typically diagnose gout by evaluating symptoms, medical history, and conducting a physical examination of the affected area. Additional testing may be recommended, such as X-rays, joint fluid tests, blood tests to measure uric acid levels, ultrasound, or dual-energy computerized tomography (DECT).

Once diagnosed, the healthcare provider can suggest appropriate treatments based on the severity of symptoms.

 

How is gout treated?

Gout treatments focus on controlling pain and inflammation, as well as reducing uric acid levels in the blood to prevent complications and minimize flare-ups. Lifestyle changes, including dietary adjustments and weight management, are often recommended. Limiting alcohol consumption and avoiding high-purine foods can help regulate uric acid production.

Weight loss and regular exercise contribute to more efficient uric acid processing, reducing the formation of urate crystals. Prescription medications such as colchicine, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and medications targeting uric acid production or removal by the kidneys may be prescribed.

 

When to see a doctor for gout?

If experiencing signs of gout, seeking advice from a healthcare provider is advisable. Gout, if left untreated, can become a chronic and extremely painful condition. A healthcare provider can identify gout, recommend treatments to manage symptoms, and provide a combination of lifestyle adjustments and prescription medications to minimize complications and flare-ups.

 

What is Laso MD?

At Laso MD, you can promptly consult with a healthcare provider about your symptoms. We offer a healthcare app providing fast, convenient 24/7 access to Canadian doctors.

Simply log in, tap a button to request a consultation, and we’ll promptly connect you to a doctor through live chat or video. Explore our How it Works page to learn more.

Our healthcare team can assess symptoms and provide online treatment, including prescriptions, as necessary.