Episodes develop very quickly, and the first episode often occurs at night.
Gout results from a build-up in the body of too much uric acid, which forms crystals that deposit in joints and cause inflammation. Uric acid is a substance that normally forms when the body breaks down waste products called purines. Gout can be inherited or happen as a complication of another condition. Mostly men over age 40, but it can affect anyone of any age. Women with gout usually develop it after menopause.