Gout is a form of arthritis that occurs when uric acid crystals build up in the joints. The most common symptom of gout is sudden, severe joint pain that comes on without warning. Gout can also cause other symptoms, such as swelling, redness and warmth in the affected joint.
Gout occurs when there is too much uric acid in the body. Uric acid is a waste product that is produced when the body breaks down purines. Purines are found in certain foods, such as organ meats, anchovies, herring and beer. When there is too much uric acid in the blood, it can form crystals in the joints which causes inflammation and pain.
There are two types of gout: primary and secondary. Primary gout occurs when there is an inherited tendency to produce too much uric acid. Secondary gout occurs when another medical condition increases uric acid levels or if certain medications are taken (such as thiazide diuretics or aspirin).
Most people with gout will only have one or two episodes of pain in their lifetime but some people may have recurrent attacks. There are several factors that can increase your risk of developing gout including: being male (gout is more common in men), age (gout usually affects people over 40 years old), family history (if someone else in your family has had gout then you are more likely to develop it yourself) , obesity (being overweight increases your chances of developing gout) , certain medical conditions (such as diabetes, high blood pressure or kidney disease) , drinking alcohol (especially beer), eating foods high in purines (such as organ meats or shellfish).
If you think you might have gout, see your doctor for diagnosis. They will ask about your symptoms and medical history and may order a blood test to measure your level of uric acid. If you do have gount, treatment involves reducing inflammation with medication and making lifestyle changes to prevent future attacks from happening .