Gout is a painful form of arthritis caused by uric acid crystals accumulating in joints. The condition affects men more often than women. What causes gout? How does it affect the body?
Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis characterised by joint pain and swelling. It occurs when too much uric acid builds up in the blood stream. This excess uric acid crystallises into tiny needle-like structures called monosodium urate (MSU) crystals. These crystals irritate the lining of the joints causing inflammation and pain.