When purine rich foods are broken down uric acid concentration rises. Gout has often been referred to as the rich man's disease, but the poor are not exempt. It's rich food, not money in the bank, that aggravates this condition. Alcohol consumption is also associated with gouty attacks because it decreases the body's excretion of uric acid. The classic gout attacks occur shortly after one has consumed much food and liquor at a party.
Activities involving exercise or stress also seem to evoke gouty attacks.
After the attack has passed, a gout afflicted patient will generally be free of symptoms. This sometimes lulls one into believing that he is cured. Unfortunately, such is not the case. Months or even years later another gout attack will occur and after that will reappear at more frequent intervals. Gout can also occur as a result of other diseases or medicines taken.