Things That Cause Gout: What to Know

Urate is produced when the body breaks down purines. If urate remains high, crystals can form in and around a joint and provoke sudden inflammation. The first attack often affects the big toe, but Gout can also cause Joint Pain or Joint Swelling in the ankle, knee, or another joint.

The kidneys help remove urate, so Chronic Kidney Disease can increase risk. Family tendency, excess body weight, dehydration, alcohol, and purine-rich foods may also contribute. A flare can follow illness, injury, fasting, or a rapid change in urate levels.

During a flare, rest the affected joint, keep it raised if comfortable, and use a cool pack wrapped in cloth for short periods. A clinician can confirm the diagnosis and choose treatment based on your kidney function, other conditions, and medicines.

Between flares, review food and drink patterns, hydration, body weight, and prescribed medicines with a clinician. Do not stop a regular medicine or start a supplement without checking, because some changes can affect urate levels or interact with treatment.

Seek urgent care for a hot, very swollen joint with fever, feeling faint, or feeling acutely unwell, because infection can resemble a gout flare. Arrange review for a first attack, repeated flares, unexplained Joint Swelling, or pain that is not improving.

Could another condition explain my swollen joint? Should my urate, kidney function, and medicines be reviewed? Which changes are most realistic for preventing further attacks?