Gout

Gout is a common, painful type of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in and around the joints. [1, 2]

Symptoms

• Sudden severe pain: Often starts in the big toe, but can also affect ankles, knees, hands, wrists, or elbows.
• Inflammation: The joint becomes red, hot, swollen, and very tender to the touch.
• Flares and remissions: Attacks usually strike suddenly (frequently at night) and last for 1 to 2 weeks before fading away. [1, 2, 3, 4]

Causes and Risk Factors

• High uric acid (hyperuricemia): Occurs when the body produces too much uric acid or the kidneys do not filter it out fast enough.
• Diet and lifestyle: Eating purine-rich foods (red meat, shellfish) and drinking alcohol (especially beer) or sugary drinks.
• Health and genetics: Being overweight, having high blood pressure or kidney disease, and having a family history of gout. [1, 2, 3, 4]

Treatment and Management

• During an attack: Doctors use non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs like ibuprofen), colchicine, or corticosteroids to reduce pain and swelling. [1, 2]
• Long-term prevention: Medications like allopurinol lower blood urate levels to dissolve crystals and stop future flares. You can check resources from the NHS Gout Guide for local care pathways. [1, 2]