Overview
Gout is a form of arthritis caused by too much uric acid in the blood, which forms sharp crystals in a joint. It brings sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness and swelling, most often in the big toe. Attacks can be triggered by rich food, alcohol or dehydration. Medicines relieve attacks quickly, and long-term treatment keeps uric acid low so joints are not slowly damaged.
Symptoms
- Sudden intense pain in a joint, often the big toe
- Redness, warmth and swelling of the joint
- Skin over the joint that looks shiny and feels tender
- Pain that peaks within hours, often at night
- Repeated attacks in the same or other joints
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for sudden severe joint pain, or if attacks keep coming back so long-term treatment can be started.
Causes
High uric acid levels from genetics, a diet rich in red meat, seafood and alcohol, obesity, dehydration and some medicines.