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Gout

Gout is a form of arthritis that causes sudden, severe joint pain, typically in the big toe (but not always). The skin over the swollen joint may also become hot, swollen and red. Symptoms may last one to two weeks if left untreated and longer with subsequent episodes. The onset of symptoms is often called an 'attack' or 'flair'. Permanent joint damage is possible.

Gout is caused by an excess of uric acid in the blood which is called: hyperuricemia (too little is called: hypouricemia). Hyperuricemia can result in sharp crystals forming in your joints, which is what causes the symptoms described earlier. Hyperuricemia is caused by an overconsumption of food or drink high in purine such as;

  • alcohol
  • fructose (soda drinks)
  • game meat such as; goose, veal or venison
  • organ meat such as; liver and kidney
  • red meat such as beef
  • seafood such as anchovies, cod, mackerel, mussels, sardines, scallops, shrimp and tuna
  • turkey
  • yeast products

Other contributing factors can include;

  • blood cancer
  • diabetes
  • heart failure
  • kidney disease
  • obesity
  • high blood pressure

Gout can lead to;

  • tophus
  • severe arthritis
  • kidney stones
  • heart disease

Drugs that may help reduce uric acid in your blood include;

  • Allopurinol
  • Febuxostat
  • Pegloticase
  • Probenecid

Treatment

Treatment of gout typically involves;

  • NSAIDs for pain reduction
  • colchicine to reduce inflammation
  • corticosteroids to reduce inflammation

You'll also be expected to make lifestyle changes such as;

Fun Facts

Further Reading

Random Facts

  • Uric acid has the chemical formula: C₅H₄N₄O3

References

Metadata

Created: 2026-05-24

Last Updated: 2026-05-28