Back to Results
Gout
Moderate
Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in and around joints. It commonly causes sudden episodes of severe joint pain, swelling, warmth, and redness, often beginning in the big toe but also affecting other joints. Repeated attacks can lead to persistent joint damage and deposits of urate crystals called tophi if the condition is not adequately controlled.
Body System
Bones & Joints
When to Seek Medical Attention
Gout can cause sudden severe joint pain and swelling and should be medically evaluated, particularly when the diagnosis is uncertain. Seek prompt care for a hot, swollen joint with fever because a joint infection can resemble gout and requires urgent treatment. Emergency evaluation is appropriate for severe systemic illness, confusion, fainting, or rapidly worsening symptoms.
Symptoms
3
Causes
3
Treatments
5
Diet
3
Overview
Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in and around joints. It commonly causes sudden episodes of severe joint pain, swelling, warmth, and redness, often beginning in the big toe but also affecting other joints. Repeated attacks can lead to persistent joint damage and deposits of urate crystals called tophi if the condition is not adequately controlled.
Symptoms 3
Back Pain
Bone Pain
Fever
Causes 3
Gout develops when uric acid levels in the blood remain high enough for urate crystals to form. High uric acid can result from the body producing too much uric acid or the kidneys not removing enough of it. Diet, alcohol, obesity, kidney disease, certain medicines, and inherited factors can influence uric acid levels. The presence of high uric acid does not always result in gout, but sustained elevation increases the likelihood of crystal formation.
Alcohol
Kidney Disease
Obesity
Risk Factors
Risk factors include obesity, kidney disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, metabolic conditions, and a family history of gout. Regular consumption of alcohol, particularly beer, and foods high in purines can increase uric acid levels in susceptible people. Certain medicines, including some diuretics, may also increase risk. The likelihood of gout generally increases with age, particularly in people with persistent high uric acid levels.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Diagnosis is based on the pattern of joint symptoms, physical examination, medical history, and laboratory or imaging findings. Blood testing can measure uric acid levels, although a normal level during an acute attack does not completely exclude gout. Examination of joint fluid under a microscope can identify characteristic urate crystals and is an important way to confirm the diagnosis. Imaging may be used in selected cases.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Gout attacks and complications can often be reduced by keeping uric acid levels under control
Maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active, limiting alcohol, reducing sugary drinks, and moderating foods high in purines such as organ meats and some seafood may help
Adequate fluid intake can also support kidney function
People with recurrent or severe gout may need prescribed urate-lowering treatment and regular medical follow-up
Prevention Guidance
Gout attacks and complications can often be reduced by keeping uric acid levels under control. Maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active, limiting alcohol, reducing sugary drinks, and moderating foods high in purines such as organ meats and some seafood may help. Adequate fluid intake can also support kidney function. People with recurrent or severe gout may need prescribed urate-lowering treatment and regular medical follow-up.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 3
Recommended Foods
Water
Promotes uric acid excretion
Fresh Fruits
Support health
Low-fat Dairy
May lower uric acid
Foods to Avoid
Red Meat
High in purines
Alcohol
May trigger attacks
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
A form of arthritis caused by uric acid crystals.
The big toe is commonly affected.
High-purine foods, alcohol, and dehydration.
Yes, with medication and dietary changes.
Repeated attacks may damage joints.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.