Gout is a type of arthritis that causes pain and swelling in the joints, usually as flares that last for a week or two, and then subside. It is caused by a buildup of uric acid in the blood, which can form needle-shaped crystals in the joints, leading to pain, swelling, redness, and changes in the movement and use of the affected joint. Uric acid can build up when the body produces too much of it or when the kidneys do not remove it from the blood fast enough. Factors that increase the uric acid level in the body include:

• Diet: Eating a diet rich in red meat, shellfish, and organ meats, such as liver, and drinking beverages sweetened with fruit sugar (fructose) increase levels of uric acid, which increase the risk of gout.
• Alcohol consumption: Especially of beer, increases the risk of gout.
• Weight: If youre overweight, your body produces more uric acid and your kidneys have a more difficult time eliminating uric acid.
• Medical conditions: Certain diseases and conditions increase your risk of gout. These include untreated high blood pressure and chronic conditions such as diabetes, obesity, metabolic syndrome, and heart and kidney diseases.
• Certain medications: Some medications, such as diuretics, can increase uric acid levels in the blood.

In summary, gout is caused by a buildup of uric acid in the blood, which can form needle-shaped crystals in the joints, leading to pain, swelling, redness, and changes in the movement and use of the affected joint. Factors that increase the uric acid level in the body include diet, alcohol consumption, weight, medical conditions, and certain medications.