Quick question about uric acid level.
I don't have gout as badly as a lot of people. I had two flares this year (this is my third year since I have been diagnosed), both in my ankle. They feel like a sprain—not the worst pain in the world, but still extremely uncomfortable.
After those flares, I decided to cut out alcohol completely. I don't eat much red meat, but I do eat a decent amount of chicken and alternate it with tofu.
My doctor sent me for a uric acid test, and my level came back at 8.4 mg/dL, it doesn't seem crazy high to me. Is that high enough to start allopurinol? Also, if I take allopurinol, could I return to a regular diet and occasional drinks with friends?