I first started about six years ago, when I would awake in the middle of the night with the worse pain in my big toe on my right foot. At first I just thought I must have hit my toe on something, but it would happen again a year later. Over the last few years, it happens about every six months. It is very, very painful. I went to the doctor about six months ago and found out it was gout. Now I have it again. I guess I need to go get medication.

I can't believe I have gout! I drink very little alcohol, and I eat very little meat, but maybe have not been drinking enough water. You are all right! The pain is terrible and wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy. I was given some meds, right now I am in Beijing, but maybe everyone has more or less the same solutions and now downing lots of water! I do like an occasional beer but it's not worth the pain; a few months ago next to last little toe! I thought my shoes were too tight! This week horrible pains, swollen left wrist, and shooting pains. I'll also go for cherry juice when I get back home; I am bigger on natural remedies than meds if can be helped; thanks for comments.

My first one felt like a stone bruise on the bottom of my big toe joint, then it moved to my full toe. Lately the attacks have been to the top of the foot and ankle (in both feet). Medrol packs usually knock it out quickly, but lately they have caused worse pain and swelling. At the time when it is the worst, I catch myself thinking I'd be better off without my foot because it hurts so bad. I don't drink, and limit my red meat- totally in my genes and I'm 36.