Gout is a form of arthritis. It is also known as toe or feet disease as the condition generally starts from the toe, knee or wrist joints. In few cases more than one joint can also be affected at one time.
When the human body breaks down the chemicals called purines, it produces uric acid. Purines are found naturally in the human body and in the food. Normally, this uric acid dissolves and goes through the urine via the kidneys. But if the body is producing too much uric acid or if the body is not excreting enough uric acid, it starts accumulating in the body. This accumulation leads to the formation of sharp needle like crystals. When they accumulate in the joints or surrounding tissues, it causes pain, inflammation and swelling.