Gout is a common type of inflammatory arthritis that usually causes severe pain in and around the affected joints. It is a very common condition in older men. The major symptoms of gout are swelling, redness, tenderness, and severe pain in the affected joint. It is usually referred to as a gout attack and these attacks can spread to other joints and get even more severe if gout is left untreated.
Gout attacks occur commonly on the joint at the base of the big toe and may affect other joints like; the ankles, elbows, knees, elbows, wrists, fingers, and every other joint in the feet. Many joints can be affected at once. 
A gout attack usually develops quickly, starting at the early hours of the morning and getting worse within 12-24 hours. It may subside after about 5-7 days or it can go on for much longer. What causes gout?