Pseudogout is another type of arthritis caused by calcium crystals. These crystals act like tiny, hot shards of glass in the joints, causing pain and swelling. An attack of gout occurs when the joint fluid becomes over-filled with uric acid. The crystals form from this fluid. This over-filling occurs when urination is decreased or too much uric acid is produced.
Uric acid is formed when the body uses proteins.
Although the exact cause of gout is unknown, aging, dehydration, family history, foods, medications, trauma, and other diseases can make you more likely to develop it. The British are 5 times more likely to develop gout. The foods that they eat may cause their increased chance of gout. Men are 9 times more likely to develop gout than women. American blacks, but not African blacks, are more likely to have gout again suggesting that diet is involved.