Key points
- Uric acid crystals in a joint
- Big toe most common
- Water helps; alcohol and red meat hurt
- Fever with hot joint = urgent
What it is
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by high levels of uric acid in the blood. The uric acid forms sharp crystals in a joint, causing sudden, severe pain and swelling.
The big toe is the most common site, but ankles, knees, wrists and fingers can be affected. Attacks often start at night.
Common signs
- Sudden, intense joint pain — often the big toe
- Redness, heat and swelling
- The joint is too tender to touch even with a bedsheet
- Pain peaks within 12–24 hours
- Lumps under the skin (tophi) after many years
What can set it off
- Alcohol, especially beer
- Red meat, organ meat and some seafood
- Sugary drinks and fructose
- Dehydration
- Sudden illness, surgery or crash dieting
- Some medicines, such as certain water tablets
Everyday care that helps
- Drink plenty of water
- Cut down alcohol, sugary drinks and red or organ meat
- Keep a healthy weight — but lose it gradually
- During an attack, rest and raise the joint; a cool pack may help
- Check uric acid as your doctor advises
When to see a doctor promptly
- Fever with a hot, swollen joint (rule out infection)
- First-ever attack — get it diagnosed
- Attacks becoming frequent
- Kidney stones or kidney problems along with gout
How we approach it at Gursagar
We review your attacks, uric acid reports, diet, alcohol, medicines, weight and family history.
Dr. Shah prescribes classical homoeopathic medicine chosen for you individually, with diet and lifestyle advice. Any medicines from your other doctors continue unless they advise otherwise.
Common questions
Should I stop dal?
Plant proteins like dal are generally fine in normal amounts; red meat and alcohol matter more.
Is it only in older men?
It is commonest in men over 40, but women can get gout too, especially after menopause.
Can I consult online?
Yes, with your uric acid and kidney reports.
Practising classical homoeopathy since 1999 · Gursagar Homoeopathic Hospital, Rajpura & Chandigarh · Full profile →
Would you like Dr. Shah to look at your case?
Consult in person at Rajpura or Chandigarh, or online from anywhere in India and abroad.
This article is for general health education and is not a substitute for a medical consultation. Every person is assessed individually, and results differ from person to person. Please do not stop or change any medicine prescribed to you without speaking to your doctor. Dr. Randeep Singh Shah, D.H.M.S., AFHom (UK) · Reg. No. 2423-A.