Gout Signs & Symptoms

by Rhyah Fletcher

Overview

The National Library of Medicine describes gout as a form of arthritis that causes pain due to inflammation of the tissues, specifically in the big toe. The main cause of gout is a buildup of uric acid in the blood. While gout typically strikes in the big toe first, it can also attack the ankles, wrists, heels, knees and elbows.
Pain

Gout sufferers experience pain in the affected joint. Gout typically causes intense pain, where even a light touch on the affected area is very painful. Gout pain usually happens suddenly and for no apparent reason.

Redness

The area affected by gout will turn red and may feel warm. The redness will spread around the affected area.
Swelling

Gout will cause the affected area to swell. Since gout typically attacks the foot, wearing shoes during a gout attack may be impossible due to immense swelling.
Tenderness

Gout causes the affected area to remain tender to the touch during an attack. Gout attacks can last anywhere from three to 10 days, with tenderness surrounding the affected joint and extended area.
Fever

Some gout sufferers also experience fever or chills during the most intense part of an attack, usually the first 24 hours. The Mayo Clinic states that gout sufferers can take over-the-counter pain relievers for gout pain, which will also help alleviate fever.