Is Gout Contagious?

Gout is a form of arthritis that can attack the joints, tissue and tendons. According to the Mayo Clinic, gout can develop when to much uric acid builds up in the blood. According to Dr. Gina M. Creutzburg of St. Vincent Hospital in Indianapolis, Indiana, gout is not contagious. However, it is hereditary.

How Do You Get It?

• According to the Mayo Clinic, urate crystals can form when you have high levels of uric acid in your blood. These crystals can cause painful inflammation in, and around, the joints.

Am I At Risk?

• If you have a family member who suffers from gout, you are at a higher risk of developing the disease at some point in your life. Moreover, if you are diabetic, or have hypertension that is left untreated, you are at a higher risk of developing gout.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of gout include swelling and redness of the joints. It's more common in the big toe, than in any other joint.

Treatment

• Treatment of gout typically consists of a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory. In some cases, according to the Mayo Clinic, a steroid injection may be administered by your physician in order to reduce inflammation and manage the pain associated with gout.

Prevention

• According to the Mayo Clinic, you may prevent gout if you maintain a healthy weight. Moreover, in some cases, medications, such as Allopurinol and Proenecid, may help lower your uric levels.