Gout is a metabolic disease, often familial associated with hyperuricemia leading to acute arthritis , usually inflammation of the big toe , but may also effect other joints . Hyperuricemia can be because of over production or under excretion of uric acid , sometimes both .Gout affects about 1 in 200 adults.Gout is usually diagnosed if you have the typical symptoms and a raised level of uric acid .Gout usually occurs in 'attacks' . An attack typically develops quickly over a few hours . Acute gouty arthritis is characterized by its sudden onset , frequently nocturnal , either without apparent precipitating cause or following rapid fluctuations in serum urate levels . Either increase or decrease in the serum urate can precipitate a gouty attack .

With the help of few lifestyle changes one can  manage the condition .

-Weight loss - If you are overweight , try to lose some weight , This will quickly reduce the load on your kidneys and help ease the gout .

- Dietary advise - A high uric acid level may be lowered by avoiding a high protein intake and foods rich in purines such as organ meats ,sea foods ,beer , peas , lentils , cauliflower & mushrooms . If you drink a lot of sugar - soft drinks ,it may help to reduce the number or out altogether 

- Avoid dehydration by drinking plenty of water (upto 2 litres/day). 

- Physical activity - This risk of gout is lower  in men who are physically active .

- Medication - If you are taking any medicines , check weather they are cause of gout .Keep your Blood Pressure checked . High Blood Pressure is more common in people with gout .