Understanding Gout: Why Long-Term Treatment Matters
Gout is one of the most painful and common types of arthritis, yet many people only treat it during flare-ups instead of addressing the underlying root cause. Without proper care, gout can progress to tophaceous gout—a severe, disfiguring form that causes joint damage and visible tophi.
At Allergy & Rheumatology Specialists of Houston, we specialize in comprehensive gout care and long-term management. Our goal is to help you achieve lasting relief—not just temporary pain control.
We accept Medicare Part B and most major insurance plans, including Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, and others.
Patients can text our office directly for quick, convenient access to care.
Who Gets Gout?
Although men are more commonly affected by gout, especially between ages 30 and 60, women can also develop gout, particularly after menopause when uric acid levels rise. Regardless of gender, gout is a chronic condition that requires proper medical evaluation and treatment to prevent long-term joint damage and pain.
What Causes Gout?
Gout is caused by excess uric acid in the blood. When uric acid builds up, it forms sharp crystals that settle in the joints, leading to sudden and severe inflammation. Over time, untreated gout can cause the formation of tophi—hard, painful lumps under the skin that can damage joints and surrounding tissues.
Why Long-Term Treatment Is Essential
Many people manage flares with NSAIDs, colchicine, or steroids, but these medications only treat inflammation—they don’t reduce uric acid or prevent future attacks. Without proper long-term therapy, gout can become chronic and destructive, leading to ongoing pain, stiffness, and deformity.
Fortunately, gout is highly treatable with the right combination of medication, lifestyle changes, and monitoring.
Medications That Control Uric Acid
- Allopurinol: A trusted first-line treatment that decreases uric acid production and prevents crystal buildup.
- Febuxostat (Uloric): A strong alternative for patients who can’t tolerate allopurinol or who need additional uric acid control.
At Allergy & Rheumatology Specialists of Houston, we tailor each treatment plan and monitor your uric acid levels carefully to ensure safety and success.
Krystexxa® – A Breakthrough for Tophaceous Gout
For patients with severe or tophaceous gout, Krystexxa® (pegloticase) offers a breakthrough solution. This infusion therapy breaks down uric acid in the body and helps dissolve existing tophi—many patients describe it as “melting away” gout deposits.
Our Houston clinic provides Krystexxa infusions under expert medical supervision to help patients restore comfort, mobility, and confidence.
Lifestyle & Diet Tips for Managing Gout
- Stay well-hydrated: Drinking water helps flush uric acid.
- Limit purine-rich foods: Avoid organ meats, red meat, shellfish, and certain fish.
- Cut back on alcohol: Especially beer and liquor, which increase uric acid.
- Maintain a healthy weight: Weight loss can lower uric acid levels.
- Avoid sugary drinks: Fructose and sweetened sodas can trigger gout.
Our team provides personalized lifestyle and nutrition counseling to help you manage gout effectively and sustainably.
Get Long-Term Relief from Gout in Houston
Whether you’re a man or woman living with gout, you don’t have to wait for the next flare. With treatments like allopurinol, febuxostat, and Krystexxa®, our team can help you prevent attacks, dissolve tophi, and protect your joints for the long term.
- Comprehensive gout diagnosis and treatment plans
- Krystexxa® infusions for advanced gout
- Lifestyle and dietary guidance
- Text-based communication for appointments and follow-up
- Acceptance of Medicare Part B, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, and most other commercial insurance plans
Text Us Directly at (713)-790-0900
Allergy & Rheumatology Specialists of Houston — your trusted Houston rheumatology clinic for gout, tophaceous gout, and advanced treatments like Krystexxa®.
