I just purchased a uric acid meter and was wondering about checking uric acid levels after an acute gout attack. How long after an attack should one wait before testing their uric acid levels? I understand that during an attack levels can be lower then they normally would be and I am trying to get a feel on when to begin checking my levels after an attack has subsided.
Far better to get into a regular testing habit – say once a month, more frequently if you prefer. You need the facts, but it is a good idea to also keep a record of gout flares to help with interpretation.
Keep uric acid below 6mg/dL, and eventually you will never need to worry about gout flares. After several months testing with stable results, you can reduce frequency to every 3 months, maybe longer, but always at least once a year.