The Wellness Greenhouse

  Gout is a form of arthritis that can cause sudden, severe episodes of pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness in the joints. It often affects the joint at the base of the big toe, but it can occur in any joint. Understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms, and knowing how to manage gout can help those affected by this painful condition live more comfortably. Causes of Gout Gout is caused by an excess of uric acid in the blood, a condition known as hyperuricemia. Uric acid is produced when the body breaks down purines, which are substances found naturally in the body and in certain foods. Normally, uric acid dissolves in the blood, passes through the kidneys, and is excreted in urine. However, if the body produces too much uric acid or the kidneys excrete too little, uric acid can build up and form sharp, needle-like crystals in a joint or surrounding tissue, causing pain, inflammation, and swelling. Several factors can increase the risk of hyperuricemia and gout, including: Die