Gout Self-Test - Pack of 1

The Newfoundland Gout Test is a self-test to detect high levels of uric acid in blood which can cause gout. Gout is the most common form of inflammatory arthritis, resulting in pain, swelling and limited function in the joints. Uric acid is created when the body breaks down substances called purines. Most uric acid is dissolved in the blood, filtered through the kidneys and expelled in the urine. However, sometimes the body produces too much uric acid or doesn’t filter out enough of it. This is called hyperuricemia, which can lead to gout and kidney stones. Gout is a type of arthritis that causes sudden, severe joint pain, usually in your big toe but it can be in other joints in your feet, ankles, hands, wrists, elbows or knees. Gout is characterised by hot, swollen, red skin over the affected joint. The levels you should aim for might be different depending on things such as your age and sex. Generally, your uric acid level is considered high if it exceeds the recommended ranges stated below. Children under 12 – 120-340 μmol/L Women – 140 – 360 μmol/L Men – 200 – 430 μmol/L