Not Medical Advice: As explained by the National Institute of Health, "gout" is one of the most painful forms of arthritis. It is caused by the buildup of too much uric acid in the body. The buildup of uric acid can lead to:
Sharp uric acid crystal deposits in joints, often in the big toe
Deposits of uric acid (called tophi) that look like lumps under the skin
Kidney stones from uric acid crystals in the kidneys.
For many people, the first attack of gout occurs in the big toe. Often, the attack wakes a person from sleep. The toe is very sore, red, warm, and swollen.
Gout can cause:
Pain
Swelling
Redness
Heat
Stiffness in joints
In addition to the big toe, gout can affect the:
Insteps
Ankles
Heels
Knees
Wrists
Fingers
Elbows
Treatment includes medication to reduce uric acid buildup, ibuprofen, and reduced consumption of seafood, red meat, organ meat, and alcohol.
Tip! Find out How to Stop a Gout Attack from Arthritis Foundation.