Gout
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a build-up of uric acid (urate) in the blood, which can form crystals in and around the joints. It causes sudden, severe episodes of joint pain, swelling, redness and tenderness.
The joint at the base of the big toe is the most commonly affected, though gout can occur in any joint. Attacks often come on suddenly, sometimes overnight, and can last from a few days to a couple of weeks.
Risk factors include a diet high in purines (found in red meat, offal and certain seafood), alcohol consumption (particularly beer), obesity, certain medications (such as diuretics) and a family history of gout.
A blood test for urate measures uric acid levels. While elevated urate levels support the diagnosis, some people with gout have normal levels during an acute attack. Lifestyle changes and medication can effectively manage the condition and prevent recurrence.
Causes of Gout
Gout is caused by hyperuricaemia (elevated uric acid levels in the blood), which leads to the formation and deposition of monosodium urate crystals in joints and surrounding tissues.
Uric acid is a waste product formed when the body breaks down purines, substances found naturally in the body and in certain foods. Hyperuricaemia occurs due to:
- Underexcretion of uric acid by the kidneys, which accounts for around 90% of cases. This can be influenced by genetics, kidney function and certain medications (particularly diuretics)
- Overproduction of uric acid, which can result from a diet high in purine-rich foods (red meat, offal, shellfish, sardines), excessive alcohol intake (especially beer), fructose-sweetened drinks and rapid cell turnover (as in certain cancers)
Other risk factors include obesity, hypertension, metabolic syndrome, chronic kidney disease and a family history of gout. Men are affected more frequently than women, though women's risk increases after the menopause as the protective effect of oestrogen declines.
Tests that can help check this condition
Learn more on the official NHS page .
