Gout commonly affects the large joint of the big toe but can occur in other joints as well. The pain is often described as throbbing, crushing, or excruciating. During an attack, the affected joint becomes extremely sensitive, to the point that even light contact with the area, such as the weight of a blanket, can feel unbearable. The pain usually peaks within the first 12 to 24 hours and, although it may subside after a few days, lingering discomfort can affect mobility and interfere with daily activities.

A key symptom of gout is visible swelling and redness around the affected joint, causing the skin to appear inflamed. This inflammation is due to urate crystal deposits, which trigger swelling that extends beyond the joint itself, creating a swollen, tender area. This symptom not only intensifies the pain during an attack but can also significantly limit movement, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks.

As gout progresses, joint mobility may decrease. This limitation is particularly troublesome, as it can interfere with simple activities like walking or grasping objects. The buildup of urate crystals can cause the joint to become stiff and less flexible, making movement painful and difficult. If left unmanaged, gout can lead to chronic stiffness and significantly affect quality of life.

In long-term cases of gout, urate crystals may accumulate in the soft tissues, forming lumps called tophi. These can appear in various parts of the body, including the fingers, hands, feet, elbows, or Achilles tendons. While tophi are not always painful, they can become swollen and tender during gout flare-ups. Their presence indicates long-term, untreated hyperuricemia, which can lead to joint damage and deformity over time.