Gout: More Than a Rich Man's Disease
Sudden overnight pain in the big toe with intense redness is the classic gout attack.
Healthlife Editorial Team
Medical writers
In simple terms
Sudden overnight pain in the big toe with intense redness is the classic gout attack.
What you need to remember
- Long-term — Allopurinol targets uric acid < 360 µmol/L (< 300 in tophaceous disease).
Uric acid crystals in joints trigger inflammation. Acute attacks are treated with colchicine, NSAIDs, or steroids.
Long-term
Allopurinol targets uric acid < 360 µmol/L (< 300 in tophaceous disease). Low-purine diet helps.
Beer and sugary drinks are the most gout-provoking beverages.
The words explained
Medical terms used above, in everyday language.
- Acute
- Something that starts suddenly and lasts a short time.
- Inflammation
- The body's reaction to injury or irritation: redness, swelling, heat or pain.
When should you see a doctor?
- Your symptoms last more than a few weeks or keep coming back.
- They get worse quickly, or stop you doing everyday things.
- You notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding — seek urgent care.
- You already take medication and want to change anything about it.
This article explains general health information. It does not replace advice from your own doctor.
Frequently asked questions
- What is Gout: More Than a Rich Man's Disease?
- Sudden overnight pain in the big toe with intense redness is the classic gout attack.
- What are the main symptoms or signs of Gout: More Than a Rich Man's Disease?
- Common signs vary from person to person. The article above lists the symptoms to watch for, how they progress, and when they need medical attention.
- When should you see a doctor for Gout: More Than a Rich Man's Disease?
- See a doctor if symptoms last more than a few weeks, get worse quickly, stop you doing everyday things, or if you notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding.
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