Gout signs, symptoms & management

Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis caused by uric acid crystal deposition in joints. It commonly causes sudden severe joint pain, redness, warmth, and swelling. The big toe joint is classically affected, but gout can also involve ankles, knees, wrists, fingers, and elbows. Recurrent gout can damage joints and form uric acid lumps called tophi.

Core clinical features

• Sudden severe joint pain
• Red, hot, swollen joint
• Extreme tenderness
• Pain often starts suddenly, commonly at night.

Classic gout attack

• Rapid onset of intense pain
• Joint becomes very tender to touch
• Skin over the joint may look shiny and red
• Pain is usually worst within the first 24 hours.

Common sites

• Big toe joint is classic
• Ankle or knee may be affected
• Wrist, fingers, or elbow can be involved
• Usually one joint is affected during early attacks.

Big toe gout

• Severe pain at the base of the big toe
• Difficulty walking or wearing shoes
• Even bedsheet touch may feel pain