Gout is caused by increased uric acid in the blood which forms needle-like crystals that get deposited in joints, causing sudden and severe pain, swelling, redness and stiffness. The most common first sign of gout is acute pain in the big toe. Advanced gout is marked by tophi formations under the skin. Immediate medical care is needed to diagnose gout, prevent further joint damage and manage the disease through diet and lifestyle changes.

1. Signs of Gout

2. The signs of gout are most common among middle-aged men.

3. It also attacks younger people and women, but this is less common.

4. Gout is caused by increased amounts of uric acid in the blood.

5. This leads to the formation of tiny needle-like urate crystals.

6. These crystals get deposited in the soft tissues, usually around joints.

7. Due to this the joints become stiff, swollen, red and incredibly painful.

8. These symptoms and their sudden onset are main signs of gout.

9. Gout is a chronic and progressive disease.

10. Unless properly managed it will continue to worsen.

11. Gout is even capable of causing permanent damage in your body.

12. It is very important to know the signs of gout for proper diagnosisat an early stage.

13. Otherwise the disease can progress into other severe stages.

14. The sufferer will also be seeking early relief from the pain and suffering

15. The most common sign of gout is the onset of acute pain along with redness, tenderness and inflammation.

16. The attack will often come on overnight, with no prior indication that there might be a problem.

17. The most common place for a first gout attack is the big toe.

18. Although other joints of the body can be affected as well.

19. A clinical diagnosis may include an analysis of the synovial fluid around the joint.

20. If uric acid crystals are present then a definitive diagnosis of gout may be given.

21. The intense pain, which is one of the surest signs of gout, usually stays for a few days.

22. It may subside with or without medication or it may last up to one or two weeks.

23. Some patients may also have a fever during a gout attack.

24. A sign of advanced gout is the formation of tophi.

25. These are nodular masses of uric acid crystals which form under the skin.

26. Tophi form in any of the soft tissue areas of the body.

27. The formation of tophi in the body signifies a very high uric acid level.

28. If you are seeing tophi then it would be a good idea to get along to your doctor!

29. Immediate medical attention should be sought to prevent further damage to the joints and other bodily systems.

30. Diet plays an important role in the control and management of gout.

31. You must significantly reduce purine-rich foods.

32. Also add more vegetables and fruits to your gout diet.

33. And be certain to increase fluid intake and abstain from or limit consumption of alcohol

34. Be very aware that gout is a progressive disease.

35. Early signs of gout eventually give way to more chronic or even permanent damage.