Gout is a type of arthritis that causes pain and swelling in the joints, usually as flares that last for a week or two. It occurs when there is a buildup of uric acid in the body, which can form needle-shaped crystals in the joints. Uric acid can build up when you have high levels of it in your blood, which can happen when your body produces too much uric acid or your kidneys dont remove it from your blood fast enough. This can be caused by various factors, including:

• Diet: Eating a diet rich in red meat, shellfish, and foods sweetened with fruit sugar (fructose) can increase levels of uric acid, which increases the risk of gout.
• Alcohol consumption: Drinking alcohol, especially beer, can increase the risk of gout.
• Weight: Being overweight can cause your body to produce more uric acid and make it harder for your kidneys to eliminate it.
• Medical conditions: Certain diseases and conditions, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, metabolic syndrome, and heart and kidney diseases, can increase the risk of gout.
• Certain medications: Some medications, such as diuretics and immunosuppressants, can increase uric acid levels and the risk of gout.

In summary, gout is caused by a buildup of uric acid in the body, which can form needle-shaped crystals in the joints. This can be caused by various factors, including diet, alcohol consumption, weight, medical conditions, and certain medications.