Types of Gout

Gout is described by how it behaves over time and by what causes the high uric acid.

By pattern

• Acute gout: a sudden attack in one or a few joints
• Intercritical gout: the quiet period between attacks
• Recurrent gout: repeated flares over months or years
• Chronic tophaceous gout: long-standing disease with chalky deposits (tophi) and joint damage

By cause of high uric acid

• Primary gout: from the body's own handling of uric acid, often linked to genes, diet, alcohol and weight. It is the most common type.
• Secondary gout: caused by another condition or medicine, such as kidney disease, blood disorders, psoriasis, cancer treatment or diuretics
• Genetic enzyme disorders: rare inherited problems in making uric acid, usually in young people

By site

• Big toe (podagra), ankle, knee, wrist, finger and elbow
• Spine and other joints in advanced disease

Related conditions

• Pseudogout: a similar flare caused by a different crystal (calcium pyrophosphate), seen in older adults
• Septic arthritis: a joint infection that can look like gout and needs urgent care
• Rheumatoid or reactive arthritis

Ayurvedic view

Vatarakta is described in several forms, with Vata or Pitta predominance. This is an interpretive link only.

Key point

Tests, not just symptoms, are needed to tell the types apart.

Before your appointment

Carry earlier uric acid and kidney reports, a list of all medicines and supplements, and notes on which joints hurt, when flares started and what you ate or drank beforehand. Tell your doctor about any kidney stones, diabetes, blood pressure or family history of gout.