Gout

Gout is a form of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid in the joints, resulting in stiffness and swelling. Uric acid is a breakdown product of purines that are part of our nourishment. An abnormality in uric acid content results in the crystallization of these compounds in joints. A person with gout can trigger painful attacks of arthritis, stones, and blockage of the tubules within the kidneys, due to uric acid crystals.

Normally, gout causes attacks of pain at night, mostly disturbing the sleeping pattern of an individual. A person with gout experiences a fire sensation in the big toe. Even the weight of the paper seems to be intolerable. Swelling, redness, and tenderness in the joints are most common in the big toe.

Signs of Gout attacks can flare up quickly and keep returning over time. This results in inflammation in the area affected, and this can be intensively painful. Hypertension, cardiovascular, and obesity are risk factors for gout.

Though attacks of gout can occur in any age group, more instances can be found in the elderly.