Diagnosis begins with the examination
of the classic signs
of gout and the persons family and personal history. The
definitive way to diagnose gout is to examine the joint fluid
for uric acid crystals. This is done by drawing fluid from the
joint using a needle and examining it under a special
polarized microscope. This method of diagnosis is intrusive
however the definitive diagnosis will facilitate proper
treatment and quick relief. Blood tests are also often done to determine uric acid
levels.
