Gout is considered one of the most intensely painful types
of arthritis. Gout is characterized by sudden onset of severe
pain, tenderness, warmth, redness, and swelling from inflammation
of the affected joint. Gout usually affects a single joint
and most often the big toe is affected. The knee, ankle, foot,
hand, wrist, and elbow may also be affected. Shoulders, hips,
and spine may eventually be affected by gout, but rarely.
Often the first gout attack occurs at night.
