Gout is a kind of arthritis that causes sudden and very painful swelling in the joints, often starting with the big toe.
Many people with gout wake up in the middle of the night because the pain is so strong. The joint may become red, hot, and hard to move.
Gout happens when there is too much uric acid in the blood. Uric acid is a natural waste product made when the body breaks down substances called purines. Purines are found in some foods and also inside our own bodies.
Normally, uric acid is removed from the blood by the kidneys and leaves the body through urine. But if your body makes too much uric acid or your kidneys don’t get rid of it fast enough, the uric acid can form tiny crystals. These sharp crystals build up in the joints and cause swelling, pain, and stiffness.
Many things can increase your chances of getting gout. One major cause is the food you eat. Foods that are high in purines, such as red meat and seafood, can raise uric acid levels. Drinks with a lot of sugar, especially those with fructose, and alcohol—especially beer and spirits—also make gout more likely.
Family history matters too. If your parents or other close relatives have had gout, you have a higher chance of getting it yourself. This is because genetics can affect how your body handles uric acid.
Other health problems can also raise the risk. People with high blood pressure, kidney disease, diabetes, or who are overweight are more likely to have trouble managing uric acid in the body.
Some medications, like diuretics used to treat high blood pressure or heart problems, and drugs with salicylates (like aspirin), can also raise uric acid levels.
Men tend to get gout more often than women. But after menopause, women’s risk goes up, likely due to changes in hormone levels that affect uric acid.
Some environmental and lifestyle factors also play a role. Being exposed to lead, going through sudden illness or stress, or making big, fast changes in your diet can all trigger a gout attack.
The good news is that gout can be managed. Changing your diet can help a lot. Try to eat fewer purine-rich foods, sugary drinks, and alcohol. Drinking lots of water helps your body get rid of extra uric acid. Staying at a healthy weight is important too. Exercise and a balanced diet can help prevent future attacks.
If you get gout often, your doctor may suggest medicine to lower your uric acid levels. These treatments can prevent attacks and protect your joints, but it’s important to take them regularly and work with your doctor to adjust as needed.
Understanding what causes gout is the first step to preventing it. With the right diet, good habits, and help from your doctor, people with gout can live full and active lives. Learning about the condition can also reduce the stigma and help more people get the care they need.
If you care about pain, please read studies about Scientists find a new way to manage knee pain and findings of Promising new drug offers hope for chronic nerve pain relief.
For more about pain, please read studies about Chronic morphine use for cancer pain may increase bone loss and findings of Scientists find a new hope for chronic pain.
Copyright © 2025 Knowridge Science Report. All rights reserved.
