Gouty arthritis (gout) is a metabolic disorder caused by abnormally high levels of uric acid in the blood. This excess uric acid causes monosodium urate crystals to deposit in the joints, leading to painful inflammation of the joints (arthritis). The arthritis from gout can occur suddenly (acute gouty arthritis) or can lead to recurring pain of longer duration (chronic gouty arthritis). Chronic gout can lead to the formation of large crystal accumulations called tophi, which can be visible around certain joints.
Gouty arthritis (gout) is a metabolic disorder caused by abnormally high levels of uric acid in the blood. Gout is most common among middle-aged men and postmenopausal women. Gouty arthritis that develops before age 30 tends to cause more severe symptoms.
Normally, a small amount of uric acid is present in the blood as a result of cell breakdown. People with gout, however, have abnormally high levels of blood uric acid, usually because their kidneys cannot sufficiently remove enough uric acid through the urine. Or, the body may produce excess uric acid because of a hereditary condition or disease. In addition, consumption of certain foods that are metabolized to uric acid can bring about episodes of acute gouty arthritis. Excess uric acid in the blood causes monosodium urate crystals to form; the most common areas affected by gout are the joints of the foot, ankle, knee, wrist, and elbow. These deposits cause painful joint inflammation (arthritis).
Painful joint inflammation from gout can occur suddenly (acute gouty arthritis). Acute gouty arthritis may be triggered by minor injury, surgery, alcohol, eating certain foods, fatigue, stress, or illness. Acute gouty arthritis usually causes severe nighttime pain in one or more joints. During an attack, the joint swells and feels warm. Even the slightest touch or movement of the affected joint can cause pain for patients with gout. Other symptoms of acute gouty arthritis include fever, chills, and a rapid heartbeat. After repeated attacks of gout, symptoms may become severe and long-term, causing chronic gouty arthritis to develop. Chronic gouty arthritis may lead to tissue destruction, joint deformity, and the development of larger accumulations of crystals called tophi. This condition is referred to as tophaceous gout. Kidney stones can also develop in some patients with gout.
This Condition Guide provides information on gouty arthritis and other useful resources to help you better understand the condition and its symptoms. Strategies to prevent attacks of gout and treatment of acute gouty arthritis are available and should be discussed with a physician.
