Gout is a health problem resulting because of the deposit of uric acid crystals in the joints and surrounding tissues. It is characterized by an excess of uric acid in the body that deposits in different parts of the body leading to recurring attacks of joint inflammation. We know two types of gout: acute and chronic. The most severe phase of gout is chronic gout that beside joint inflammation and pain may also lead to kidney malfunction and kidney stones.

Throughout history it is believed that gout is the most frequent illness. It is also believed that gout is a problem that can be inherited. It consists of the deposit of uric acid in the joints or surrounding tissues. Abnormal elimination of uric acid can cause attacks of painful arthritis (gout attack), kidney stones or even kidney failure. Even so there are known a few cases where patients only develop elevated blood uric acid levels (hyperuricemia) without developing arthritis or kidney problems.

Gout attack means a rapid onset of joint inflammation and pain that usually occur over night.

A high number of persons develop gout. Only in America not less than one million people are suffering from recurrent gout attacks. It is well to know that men are more prone to develop gout than women. It is believed that gout is nine times more common in men than in women. Men are prone to develop gout right after puberty while women are at risk only at menopause.

It is believed that a relation between gout and hyperuricemia exists but it is unclear. We are certain that many patients with hyperuricemia do not develop gout. We are also certain about the fact that some patients with repeated gout attack have normal or low blood uric acid levels. About 10 percent of the male population has hyperuricemia and a small percentage of them will actually develop gout.

Specialists are able to advice humans how to prevent gouty arthritis. Obesity in youth, high alcohol intake and unhealthy diets may lead to gout attacks. Also aspirin and diuretics could be a cause for developing gout attacks. Of course injury of the joints could lead to a gout attack. Gout attacks are also related to some diseases such as leukemia, lymphoma and hemoglobin disorders.

The most common affection is the big toe joint problem. It is seen in about 50 % of the cases of gout. Other joints can be affected too. The ankles, the knees, wrists, fingers and elbows are at risk. After a rapid onset of the pain in the affected joint it usually follows warmth, swelling and high sensitivity for the joint. These painful attacks may last hours to days and may be recurrent.