Gout symptoms and affected joints

A flare can arrive quickly

Pain may intensify over hours and make even light contact difficult. Redness, warmth, swelling, and limited movement are common, but the exact pattern varies.

Beyond the big toe

Feet, ankles, knees, hands, wrists, elbows, bursae, and tissues around tendons may be affected. Long-standing deposits can form firm lumps called tophi.

Symptoms do not confirm the cause

Infection, injury, CPPD, and other inflammatory arthritis can look similar. A first or unusual episode should be evaluated rather than diagnosed from a photograph or website.

• Record when symptoms started
• Note every affected joint
• Photograph visible swelling for the clinician
• Report fever, wounds, recent procedures, or severe illness