The Truth:
• Not life-threatening at all
• Very painful, but not deadly
• Won't cause death directly
• However, needs treatment to prevent complications
Long-term risks if UNTREATED:
• Kidney damage (over 10+ years)
• Joint destruction (permanent)
• Constant pain
• But these are 100% PREVENTABLE with treatment!
Question 2: Is It Easily Treatable?
YES - One of the EASIEST arthritis types to treat!
Treatment:
• One pill daily (allopurinol 100-300mg)
• 90-95% success rate
• Takes 3-6 months to fully control
• Very safe medication
• Works with all her current medications
• Cost: $10-20/month
Result: NO MORE ATTACKS! ✅
Question 3: What Does Gout Do?
Severe pain attacks + joint damage if untreated
During Attacks:
• Pain level: 10/10 (worst pain imaginable)
• Can't walk, can't touch joint
• Joint red, hot, swollen
• Lasts 3-10 days without treatment
• Usually big toe, but also knees (HER PROBLEM!)
Long-term (if untreated):
• Attacks more frequent (monthly instead of yearly)
• Joint destruction over 5-10 years
• Kidney damage
• Constant pain
• Disability
Question 4: How Do We Confirm?
Blood test (easy) or joint aspiration (100% definitive)
Step 1: Uric Acid Blood Test
• Simple blood draw
• Cost: $20-40
• Results: 1-2 days
• If > 6.0 mg/dL = high suspicion
Step 2: Joint Aspiration (if needed)
• Needle in knee joint (numbed)
• Look for crystals under microscope
• 100% accurate
• Cost: $150-300
Most cases: Blood test is enough to start treatment!