Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that causes pain and swelling in the joints, usually as flares that last for a week or two, and then resolve. Gout flares usually occur in one joint and can be triggered by certain foods, alcohol, certain medications, physical trauma, or certain illnesses. The following are some common triggers of gout flares:

• High levels of uric acid: Gout occurs when urate crystals accumulate in the joint, causing inflammation and intense pain of a gout attack. Urate crystals can form when you have high levels of uric acid in your blood. Your body produces uric acid when it breaks down purines, which are found naturally in your body and certain foods, including red meat and organ meats, such as liver.

• Diet: Eating a diet rich in red meat and shellfish and drinking beverages sweetened with fruit sugar (fructose) increase levels of uric acid, which increase your risk of gout.

• Alcohol: Drinking alcohol, especially beer, increases the production of uric acid in the body and can trigger gout flares.

• Certain medications: Aspirin, certain diuretics for high blood pressure (and other conditions), and drugs for people who had organ transplants can trigger gout.

• Physical trauma: Injuries or surgery can trigger gout flares.

• Certain illnesses: Certain illnesses, such as hypertension (high blood pressure) and chronic kidney disease, can increase the risk of gout.

It is important to note that gout triggers can differ from person to person, and some people may have frequent flares, while others may not have another flare for years. Keeping a diary of what you eat and drink can help you identify your triggers and avoid them.