15 Common Signs of Gout

Updated on February 2, 2025
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Sudden and Intense Joint Pain

Sudden, severe pain is the most common symptom that a person experiences when gout is about to start. It is especially common at night or in the morning. In reality, the pain may be severe enough to wake up the person from sleep. It is frequently the big toe that gets attacked in the first place. However, other joints, such as knees, wrists, and elbows, may be invaded as well. It is so painful that even touching the bed sheet could appear like the animal is clawing the body.

Swelling is a sign of an inflamed joint. The set of symptoms happens because of the accumulation of needle-like uric acid crystals, which are inflamed, and the joint swells up. The pain, in certain cases, is felt within a few hours.

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