Gout is characterized by “gout attacks” or “gout flares”, which involve periods of redness, swelling, and often intense pain in joints. In general, gout attacks will present with the following signs:
- Often occurs in one joint at a time
- Affected joint is swollen, red, and warm
- Frequently occurs at night or in the early morning
- Symptoms peak within 24 hours of onset and last around 3–14 days in the absence of medical treatment
Although symptoms are most common in the big toe, the knees, fingers, and ankles can also be affected.
Blood levels of uric acid levels will also usually be elevated in gout.