Gout is a painful disease that usually affects the large joint of the big toe, but it also affects other joints of the body. This symptom occurs when the level of uric acid in the blood is too high. Uric acid is produced when the body breaks down some foods and beverages. When the concentration of uric acid is high enough, it can cause crystals to form in some joints. This can cause inflammation and cause pain and swelling of the affected joints.
Anyone can suffer from gout, but people with a family history of gout are more susceptible to this disease. Gout is more common in people over 40 years old who are obese or drink too much alcohol.
The treatment of gout includes medication to relieve pain and joint inflammation, and changes in diet and lifestyle to prevent gout. There are also drugs that can reduce the level of uric acid in the blood and help prevent gout attacks.
