Gout is a form of arthritis that causes swelling of the joints due to high levels of uric acid in the body. The kidneys filter uric acid and excrete it from the body through urine. Crystals form in the joints when excessive levels of uric acid build-up, causing swelling and excruciating pain. The pain can last for several days to a few weeks and this condition damages the tendon, joints, and other tissues.
Gout can flare up without specific cause, but it is brought on by large amounts of uric acid from certain medications and purines from a variety of food like beans and red meat. It can also be caused by specific medical conditions like high blood pressure.
Urine Test
Urine tests may be done to rule out a urinary tract infection (UTI) or kidney stones.
