Gout is caused by a build up of uric acid in the body. That information has been clear for many years. Uric acid, which is present in most people's bodies, builds to an extraordinarily high amount in the blood in some people.

 While many doctors say there are pretty clear cut ways to avoid this build-up, the reasons for someone's predisposition to that build-up are completely unknown. In fact, the only idea they have at this point is that eighteen percent of gout sufferers have the disease in their family. Eighteen percent does not present very convincing evidence for the idea that it is a hereditary illness. Once the uric acid builds up in that person's body, the kidneys simply cannot handle the overflow. They are supposed to work as filters for the body, but once inundated, they cannot take the stress. The uric acid then crystallizes in the joints. This causes pain and inflammation.

As doctors continue their research into the question of "what is gout," millions of people will continue to struggle with outbreaks. Visit some of the other articles on our site to discover ways to learn to deal with your outbreaks.