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Gout is an inflammatory joint disease and a form of arthritis, not some mysterious illness of the rich and powerful.
Gout, which occurs in about five percent of people with arthritis, results from the buildup of uric acid in the blood. Uric acid is the result of the breakdown of waste substances, called purines, in the body. Usually it is dissolved in the blood, processed by the kidneys, and passed out of the body in the urine. But in some people there is an excess amount of uric acid, too much for the kidneys to eliminate quickly. When there is too much uric acid in the blood, it crystallizes and collects in the joint spaces, causing gout. Occasionally, these deposits become so large that they push against the skin in lumpy patches, called tophi, that can really be seen.
A gout attack usually lasts five to ten days, and the most common area under siege is the huge toe. In fact, 75 percent of people with gout will be affected in the huge toe at some time. Gout in the huge toe can become so painful that even a bedsheet draped over it will cause intolerable pain. Besides the huge toe, gout may also develop in the ankles, heels, knees, wrists, fingers, and elbows.
If you’re already predisposed to gout, you can trigger an episode by
Drinking too much alcohol
Overeating, especially purine foods
Having surgery
Experiencing a sudden severe illness or trauma
Going on a crash diet
Injuring a joint
Having chemotherapy
Being under stress. The link isn’t the stress itself, but the comfort eating or drinking that may accompany it.
If you have gout, professional medical treatment is required. There are several prescription medications that are very effective at eliminating excess uric acid. Untreated, gout may progress to serious joint hurt and disability. Also, excess uric acid can cause kidney stones.
Treatment for gout usually involves medications. What medications you and your doctor choose will be based on your current health and your own preferences. Medications for gout include:
 Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). NSAIDs may control inflammation and pain in people with gout. NSAIDs include over-the-counter options such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others) and naproxen (Aleve, others), as well as more powerful prescription NSAIDs. NSAIDs carry risks of stomach pain, bleeding and ulcers.
 Colchicine. Colchicine controls gout effectively, but may cause uncomfortable side effects, such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. If you’re unable to take NSAIDs, your doctor may recommend colchicine.
 Steroids. Steroid medications, such as the drug prednisone may control gout inflammation and pain. Steroids may be administered in pill form, or they can be injected into your joint. Side effects of steroids may include thinning bones, poor wound healing and a decreased ability to fight infection. Steroids may be reserved for people who can’t take either NSAIDs or colchicine.
Drinking alcohol worsens the problem.