An official website of the United States government
Here’s how you know
Official websites use .gov A
.gov website belongs to an official government
organization in the United States.
Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A
lock (
) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to
the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official,
secure websites.
Gout is a common, painful form of arthritis. It causes swollen, red, hot and stiff joints. Gout is caused by increased production of uric acid.
Uric acid crystals travel and accumulate in the joints, especially in the feet and legs, causing great pain and swelling.
You are more likely to get gout if you are a man, overweight, drink alcohol, eat too many foods rich in purines, or have a family member with gout.
Review Date 4/1/2025
Updated by: Diane M. Horowitz, MD, Rheumatology and Internal Medicine, Northwell Health, Great Neck, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
