What Should I Do I Was Recently Diagnosed With Gout Of The Big Toe?

Posted on Sat, 23 May 2020

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 23 May 2020 Answered on

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 Last reviewed on

Question : I was recently diagnosed with gout of the big toe. It has lasted a fee weeks but gotten better after taking prednisone and vitamin C supplements. The podiatrist said I already had a small fracture and the fracture could have triggered the gout attack. I take a diuretic tablet for pre hypertension and now the podiatrist in having me take a uric acid blood test it showed my level is 7.5. Some ranges indicate that is high while others say it is within normal. I am just concerned as I read a high level could indicate other issues such a cancer or heart disease. All my blood work a few months ago and cholesterol were at good ranges.

Answered by Dr. Ilir Sharka (4 hours later)

Brief Answer:
I would explain as follows:

Detailed Answer:
Hello!

Welcome to Ask a Doctor service!

Regarding your concern, I would explain that there are many benign causes underlying high uric acid levels.

The first thing to do is to cut off protein from your diet. In this regard I would recommend eating less meat and beans.

From the other hand, a diuretic like hydrochlorthyazide can increase uric acid levels.

Are you taking this drug? In such case, switching to another antihypertensive drug will be necessary.

If your uric acid levels don't drop with such measures, starting medication may be needed.

As long as your other blood tests are normal, you shouldn't worry about cancer.

Hope you will find this information helpful!

Kind regards,

Dr.Ilir Sharka, Cardiologist

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T

Follow up: Dr. Ilir Sharka (1 hour later)

Is 7.5 considered real high and what time frame should I get retested?

Answered by Dr. Ilir Sharka (13 hours later)

Brief Answer:
I would explain as follows:

Detailed Answer:
Hello again!

You should know that the 7mg/dLd is the maximal normal range of uric acid in men.

So, your uric acid levels are slightly above the borderline.

That is why I recommend only diet modifications and stop hydrochlorothyazide if you are taking it.

I recommend having another test after a month or two.

Hope you will find this information helpful!

If you have any other questions, I would be glad to assist you again!

Wishing all the best,

Dr.Iliri

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj