What is gout?

Gout results from an elevated level of uric acid and overall acidity in the blood.  Uric acid crystals are deposited on the cartilage of joints, causing excruciating, burning pain in the affected joint.  Swelling, redness, warmth and stiffness are also associated with a joint affected by gout.  Pain develops suddenly and is more common in men than women.  The most common site of gout is in the big toe, although it can affect the ankle, heel, mid-foot or other joints within the body.

Many people think that gout only affects people who drink excessive amounts of alcohol.  Alcohol is certainly a risk factor for developing gout but it is not a pre-requisite – i.e. non-alcoholics can also suffer from gout.
Gout can usually be well controlled by medication.  And most medications are only required at the onset of an attack.

In extreme cases, surgery may be required to correct joint deformity and remove the tophi that form as part of the disease