Gout is a type of arthritis in which a crystallized form of uric acid accumulates in the joints if the kidneys become overloaded and cannot filter it from the blood. Gout can be triggered by certain foods (like alcohol or meals high in fat or protein), sickness, or stress. It occurs most often in the joint of the big toe, but it can affect any major joint in the body. The pain generally increases quickly and soon the affected joint is swollen and very tender. Because the pain is so severe, you may also feel as though you have flu-like symptoms (fever, chills, body aches).
The prescription medicine colchicine is effective for bringing down inflammation within twelve to twenty-four hours. While no one really knows exactly how colchicine works, it appears to help by reducing the inflammatory response to uric acid crystals that form inside the joints and by interfering with the body’s mechanism for making uric acid. It will only relieve the pain of acute attacks and lessen the frequency and severity of attacks. It has no effect on other kinds of pain.
