A Hot, Red, Throbbing Big Toe at Night: What Gout Looks Like and What Helps

purines. When levels stay high, the acid can form tiny needle-like crystals in a joint. The body reacts with sudden inflammation, which is what you see and feel.

What does a gout attack look like?

Sudden, severe pain, often starting at night

Redness, warmth and shiny skin over the joint

Swelling, with the big toe joint most often affected

Stiffness and tenderness to even light touch

Pain that peaks in the first 12 to 24 hours and may fade over several daysCommon triggers

Red meat and organ meats such as liver and kidney

Some seafood, including sardines, anchovies and shellfish