Gout is one of numerous types of arthritis that accounts for about 5% of all arthritis cases. It's caused by minute crystals that grow in the joints and connective tissue and look like needles. The symptoms of gout usually appear in the big toe joint, although it can also appear in the feet, ankles, knees, elbows, wrists, hands, or fingers.

Gout attacks can strike without warning, waking you up in the middle of the night with the impression that your big toe is on fire. Even the weight of the bedsheet on the affected joint may appear uncomfortable because it is hot, swollen, and sensitive.

Although gout symptoms come and go, there are ways to control them and minimize flare-ups.