Gout severely affects the body by depositing uric acid crystals in the joints and soft tissues near the joints. This causes profound pain in those areas and other symptoms that can be hard to manage if left untreated.

The onset of gout is usually seen in the great toe. It comes on suddenly, usually upon awakening in the morning. It is very severe and hard to walk when the condition starts. It quickly spreads to the joints and they become red, inflamed and swollen. There is most often heat to the touch. The joints affected are the knees, elbows, hands, shoulders and feet. When gout comes on, people usually describe it as the worst pain they ever felt. The joints are also very painful to the touch. Some people may notice the first symptoms of gout when they try to wear a certain type of shoes and they suddenly feel very uncomfortable.

When the onset of gout appears, it is important to seek gout treatment as quickly as possible to reduce the effects on the body and increase mobility. Gout can be a very manageable condition with proper diet and treatment.