Gout is another form of arthritis and is one of the most controllable diseases. It is a condition in which too much uric acid is accumulated in areas and forms crystal in the affected joints which causes extreme pain. Gout usually develops in the joints of the first toe and can also affect the ankle and the knee. The joints of the feet, ankles, knees, wrists, fingers, and elbows may also be involved.

However, it is difficult to envisage when gout will strike at you. It occurs suddenly and most commonly at night without any warning. The affected area becomes so sensitive that it responds to someone walking in the room or even the bed sheet, which increases the pain. The swelling extends all over the foot making it impossible to put on a shoe and fever often develops.

The main symptom is sudden and severe joint pain. And the affected joint develops redness, swelling, stiffness and tenderness. There are other signs which include:

1) Fever and inflammation

2) Tophi, a firm, white lump beneath the skin

3) Very red or purplish skin around the affected joint that appears to be infected

4) Limited joint movements in the affected area

5) Fast increase in discomfort that last for a couple of hours at night and lessen in the next 2-7 days

6) After an attack, the skin around the infected area may peel and you may experience itchiness

Sometimes the gout symptoms may differ:

- It may occur after an illness or surgery

- Some people may not experience gout as many painful attacks but develop chronic gout instead, which is less painful and can be confused with other forms of arthritis

- It may first appear as a small lump on the hands, elbows, or ears. And you may not experience any attack of gout.

These signs typically occur only in one joint and develop quickly. They usually last for 3- 10 days after which any pain or discomfort disappears completely. The condition is not gout, if widespread signs occur. Gout, very rarely, develops such signs in two or three joints continuously. If not treated at the right time, it can damage joints and cause disability.