Signs and symptoms
... The symptoms of gout are almost always acute, occurring suddenly — often at night — and without warning. They include: Intense joint pain. Gout usually affects the large joint of your big ...

Causes
... The cause of gout is an excessive blood level of uric acid, a waste product formed from the breakdown of purines. These are substances found naturally in your body as well as in certain foods, especia...

Risk factors
... The following conditions or circumstances can increase the chances you''ll develop high levels of uric acid that may lead to gout: Lifestyle factors. Excess consumption of alcohol, especially beer, is...

When to seek medical advice
... If you experience sudden, intense pain in a joint, call your doctor. Gout that goes untreated can lead to worsening pain and joint damage. Seek medical care immediately if you have a fever and a joint...

Screening and diagnosis
... To help diagnose gout, your doctor may withdraw fluid from the affected joint to check for crystals of uric acid in your white blood cells. Other tests may include: Urine test. You may have a urine te...

Screening and diagnosis
... To help diagnose gout, your doctor may withdraw fluid from the affected joint to check for crystals of uric acid in your white blood cells. Other tests may include: Urine test. You may have a urine te...