Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis which is caused by high levels of uric acid in the blood. The buildup of uric acid usually affects joints. Any joint can be affected by gout, but it mostly affects joints towards the end of the limbs, such as the toes, ankles, knees, and fingers.

Gout was historically called “the disease of the kings” or “rich man’s disease”. It was called so because it was believed that only the rich got this disease due to overindulgence in food and wine. It has been recognized in history since the time of the Egyptians. Many historic figures like Queen Victoria, Henry VIII and Alexander the Great have suffered from gout. Various history books mention gout in great detail.

Symptoms of gout may include:

• Sudden and severe pain in one or several joints
• The joint feeling very tender
• Mild fever
• Swelling around the joint
• The skin around the joint becoming red and shiny

Where in the body does gout strike? The joints most affected by gout are:

• Toes – particularly the joint in the big toe
• Middle of the foot
• Fingers
• Wrists
• Elbow
• Ankles
• Knees

Gout progresses to affect other joints if it is not treated.

The attacks happen mostly at night when the body hydration is lower, and uric acid is more concentrated. The symptoms progress slowly over a few hours. The attack can last between 3 and 10 days, after which the swelling may subside and return to normal. The frequency of the gout attack may be every few months or every few years. It is always better to resort to examination and medical treatment at the earliest, instead of waiting for another attack. The symptoms can recur more seriously and frequently if not treated. The timing and extent of the attack cannot be predicted.

Risk factors causing gout
Around 4% of adults are affected by gout. The prevalence of this disease is increasing as a result of changes in diet, lifestyle and environmental factors. The risk factors which increase the incidence of gout are:

• Genes – You are more likely to be affected by gout (around 20% increase in risk) if one of your parents has it.
• Diet – Eating red meat and seafood increases the risk of gout.
• Alcohol – For those who have been affected by gout, more than two alcoholic drinks in a day can cause an attack.
• Medication – Certain medications can raise uric acid levels and trigger gout attacks.
• Gender – Gout is more common in men than in women, at least up to the age of 60, as the natural estrogen protects women up to that age. In men, the incidence of gout reduces after age 60 while women can even have their first attack of gout even at the age of 80.
• Obesity – Obese people are at a higher risk of gout and they develop it at a younger age.
• Certain health conditions – High blood pressure, heart problems, high levels of cholesterol and diabetes increase the risk of gout.