Thanks Kiwi - i did have a high uric acid count when tested last year but I don't think anyone apart from me has considered haemochromatosis or PV. I did read that there's a string link with gout - which my dad suffered from severely. I do have a couple of swellings on my fingers and knuckles but I assume this is just wear and tear arthritis. My face isn't grey or orange. But I will definitely ask about this. Mat