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Gout

Gout is an arthritis of the joints that can cause sudden, severe pain. While it can occur at any joint in the body, it is most commonly experienced at the joint at the base of the big toe.

Gout symptoms typically have an acute onset and commonly happen at night. Symptoms include:

• Intense pain in the joint
• Persistent joint discomfort
• Tenderness, redness or inflammation

Because gout can be caused by a buildup of uric acid around the joint, risk factors for the condition include those that cause an overabundance of uric acid, such as:

• Excessive alcohol intake
• Diseases like hypertension and diabetes
• Family History
• Gender (gout is more common in men)

If you suspect what you're experiencing may be gout, it's important to see a doctor. Once he or she has diagnosed your condition, gout is treatable. Your doctor may prescribe one of a number of different medications aimed at treating your gout, preventing future attacks of gout and reducing the risk of complications from gout.