Uric acid is the end product of the metabolism of a food component called purine.
Acute gout typically presents with pain, swelling, warmth and redness in a joint. Usually the first attack affects only one joint. Other joints commonly involved are the ankle, knee, instep or forefoot, wrist and fingers, elbows, and even the spine. Acute attacks commonly start during the night and usually peak within one to two days of symptoms onset. Untreated attacks may last seven to 10 days.