Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis that can affect various joints, most commonly the big toe, notes Dr. María Rosa Palpacelli Bolli, internal medicine specialist at ABC Medical Center. That said, this condition can also affect other joints, such as the ankle, elbow, wrist, or fingers.
Gout is a metabolic condition caused by excess uric acid in the blood. Uric acid buildup can result from eating too much red meat, cured meats, shellfish, or certain vegetables, as well as excessive alcohol consumption.
Beyond overconsumption of certain foods, gout can also develop due to kidney dysfunction, which can lead to flare-ups caused by uric acid crystals depositing in the tissues.
Someone developing gout will typically experience sudden, intense pain, with the affected joint turning reddish, becoming numb, and feeling warm to the touch; in less frequent cases, fever can also occur, notes Dr. Palpacelli.
When these symptoms appear, it’s known as a gout flare, which can last up to three weeks. While episodes may initially be brief, without proper treatment they can last longer and may even lead to joint deformity over time.
How Is Gout Diagnosed?
Once a patient sees a specialist, the doctor will review their medical history, dietary habits, and look for any previous episodes of joint inflammation or a history of elevated uric acid levels. If gout is suspected, the doctor may order tests, such as a fluid sample from the affected joint, which can be analyzed in the lab to check for uric acid crystal deposits.
Before reaching this stage, people can take steps to help prevent gout flares, such as reducing foods that raise uric acid levels, avoiding combining large amounts of meat and alcohol in hot weather (when dehydration is more likely), and, in some cases, using medication for support.
Dr. Palpacelli notes that if joint inflammation occurs, it’s important to get evaluated to determine whether it’s gout, an infection, or another type of issue.
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