3. Swelling
When a person suffers from a gout attack they will not only experience pain, but they also will likely have some swelling appear as well. When uric acid begins to build up around the joints, the body responds to it by creating an immune reaction. This immune reaction is the body’s way of trying to drive the uric acid out.
As the body is responding to the excess of uric acid, it can cause the areas around the joints to become enlarged or swollen. The skin in the area may start to become red. This swelling and redness may go all the way up your leg and past your knees. In addition, when you touch the swollen areas it can cause more pain and discomfort. This makes the symptom even more difficult to deal with and once again, standing or walking will be difficult. A cold compress may provide you with some relief.