In gout, monosodium urate crystals are deposited in tissue, where there is too much uric acid in the body. The body makes uric acid when it breaks down purines, which are found in your body and the foods you eat, causing inflammation and severe pain of relatively rapid onset, usually in a single joint.
Overview
What is Gout?
Symptoms
What are the signs of Gout?
The signs and symptoms of Gout include:
Pain in a single joint, often at the base of the great toe, but can be in other joints of the feet, fingers, wrists, elbows, knees, and ankles
"Exquisite" pain and tenderness
Swelling, heat, and stiffness of joint
Shiny red or purple coloration of joint
Fever up to 39°C (102.2°F) with or without chills Begins in hours and may subside over a few days or up to three weeks
Untreated, attacks will be more frequent and more severe
Causes
What are the causes of Gout?
The exact cause of Gout is unknown but the following factors play an important role:
Age - middle-aged man or postmenopausal woman
Family history
Alcohol
Medications such as diuretics and cyclosporine
Conditions like high blood pressure, kidney disease, thyroid disease, diabetes, or sleep apnea
Diagnosis
How do I know if I have Gout?
To diagnose Gout, your doctor is likely to ask you about your medical and family history, perform a physical exam.