Gout (also known as podagra when it involves the joint at the base of the big toe)[4] is usually

characterized by recurrent attacks of inflammatory arthritisa red, tender, hot, and swollen joint.
[5]
Pain typically comes on rapidly in less than twelve hours.[6] The joint at the base of the big toe
is affected in about half of cases.[7] It may also result in tophi, kidney stones, or urate
nephropathy.[6]
The cause is a combination of diet and genetic factors. It occurs more commonly in those who
eat a lot of meat, drink a lot of beer, or are overweight. The underlying mechanisms involves
elevated levels of uric acid in the blood. When the uric acid crystallizes, and the crystals deposit
in joints, tendons, and surrounding tissues an attack of gout occurs. Diagnosis may be confirmed
by seeing the characteristic crystals in joint fluid or tophus. Blood uric acid levels may be normal
during an attack.[6]
Treatment with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), steroids, or colchicine improves
symptoms. Once the acute attack subsides, levels of uric acid are usually lowered via lifestyle
changes, and in those with frequent attacks, allopurinol or probenecid provides long-term
prevention.[6] Taking vitamin C and eating a diet high in low fat dairy products may be
preventative.[8]
Gout affects about 1 to 2% of the Western population at some point in their lives. It has become
more common in recent decades which is believed to be due to increasing risk factors in the
population, such as metabolic syndrome, longer life expectancy, and changes in diet. Older
males are most commonly affected.[6] Gout was historically known as "the disease of kings" or
"rich man's disease".[6][9] It has been recognized at least since the time of the ancient Egyptians.[6]