Gout is an arthritis characterized by the formation of small crystals in and around joints. Sudden attacks of severe pain and swelling are hallmarks of this condition. Gout affects between one and two out of every 100 people in the UK.
Women after menopause and men over 30 are most likely to suffer from this condition. In general, men are more likely to suffer from gout than women. Painful and debilitating gout can be relieved and prevented through treatment.
In general, gout refers to a variety of foot conditions caused by the buildup of uric acid. You will probably feel swelling and pain in your big toe if you have gout. When you experience sudden and intense pain from a gout attack, your foot may feel like it is on fire. Gout attacks usually peak 12-24 hours after onset, and then gradually disappear without treatment. An average recovery time from gout (without treatment) is seven to fourteen days.
1 Early Warning Signs & Symptoms of Gout
Symptoms of gout almost always appear suddenly at night, and often occur without warning. A few of them are:
Pain in your big toe
This is the most obvious gout symptom, as it represents the classic hallmark of a gout attack. Some uric acid comes from dietary sources, but most come from metabolic processes. If your body becomes incapable of breaking down the uric acid due to kidney disease, diabetes, hypertension medication, or aging, uric acid will build up in the body and form crystals. It is common for crystals to migrate to the toe, where they are attacked by the body as foreign invaders. There is excruciating pain, warmth, and redness as a result. Even touching your toe with a bed sheet can be extremely uncomfortable.
