Gout is a painful form of arthritis caused by too much uric acid in the blood, which forms tiny crystals in a joint. It often starts suddenly, commonly in the big toe, with severe pain, redness and swelling.
Common triggers
- Alcohol, especially beer
- Large amounts of red meat, organ meat and some seafood
- Sugary drinks, dehydration and crash dieting
- Certain medicines, and kidney problems
Managing gout
- See a doctor during an attack for pain and inflammation relief
- Drink plenty of water and keep to a healthy weight
- Limit alcohol and trigger foods
- If attacks keep returning, long-term medicines can lower uric acid and prevent joint damage
A high uric acid level on a blood test without symptoms does not always need medicines, so let your doctor decide what is right for you.
This article is general information and does not replace a medical consultation. Please see a doctor for advice about your own health.
