This document discusses gout, a disorder caused by high levels of uric acid in the blood that leads to painful inflammation in joints. It begins by explaining that gout occurs when uric acid crystallizes and collects in joints, causing an inflammatory response. Risk factors include diet, obesity, heavy alcohol use, and certain medications. Acute gout often appears as sudden, severe pain in the big toe joint and can be diagnosed by identifying uric acid crystals in joint fluid. Long-term treatment focuses on lifestyle changes and medications to reduce uric acid levels and prevent recurrent attacks.