Gouty arthritis

Gouty arthritis, usually called gout, is an inflammatory joint disorder caused by needle-shaped urate crystals that form when uric acid builds up in the blood. It is more common in men and usually starts in middle age, with women generally affected after menopause. Risk factors include a family history, excess weight, alcohol, kidney problems, high blood pressure, diabetes and certain medicines such as diuretics. Attacks bring sudden severe pain in a warm, swollen, red joint, most often in the big toe and often at night, and untreated disease can cause tophi, joint damage and kidney stones. Diagnosis relies on measuring blood uric acid, with joint fluid sampling or imaging if the picture is unclear. Attacks are treated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or steroids, while uric acid-lowering medicine is taken long term by people with frequent attacks, alongside weight loss and less alcohol.

Seek urgent care for a fracture after a minor fall, a hot swollen joint with fever, or sudden severe back pain. See a doctor for joint pain and stiffness lasting more than six weeks, loss of height, or if you have risk factors for weak bones and have never had a bone-density assessment. Call the local emergency number for any symptom that is sudden and severe. This page is a reference for healthcare professionals and does not replace an assessment.