Gout

Gout is caused by high levels of uric acid in your blood. Very high levels of uric acid can form microscopic crystals that build up in your joints or under your skin (tophi). The buildup of crystals causes swelling and pain and may lead to joint damage.

You’re more likely to get gout if you:

• Have a close relative with gout—gout runs in families
• Have kidney problems, such as kidney disease
• Drink a lot of alcohol
• Eat a lot of certain foods that increase uric acid levels—such as liver, kidney, herring, mussels, sardines, asparagus, and mushrooms
• Take certain medicines
• Have lead poisoning (when lead builds up in your body)
• Are overweight or obese
• Have metabolic syndrome (a condition that can cause a large waist, high blood pressure, and high blood sugar levels)
• Are having chemotherapy or radiation treatment for cancer