"Arthritis" is a broad term for joint inflammation — gout is actually one specific type, with a distinct cause and pattern.
| Feature | Gout | Osteoarthritis | Rheumatoid Arthritis |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cause | Uric acid crystal buildup | Wear-and-tear of cartilage | Autoimmune |
| Onset | Sudden, often overnight | Gradual, over years | Can develop over weeks-months |
| Typical joint | Big toe (classic), also ankle/knee | Weight-bearing joints (knee, hip) | Small joints, both sides symmetric |
| Redness/heat | Very common, intense | Less common | Common |
Caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in a joint, triggering sudden, intensely painful attacks — classically in the big toe, though other joints can be affected.
The most common type of arthritis, from gradual wear of joint cartilage over years, mainly affecting weight-bearing joints like knees and hips.
An autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the joint lining, typically affecting smaller joints on both sides of the body symmetrically, often with morning stiffness lasting over an hour.
A joint that's suddenly hot, red, and severely swollen — especially with fever — should be checked promptly, as it can occasionally signal a joint infection rather than gout or arthritis.
This comparison is for general awareness only and cannot replace a medical diagnosis. Many conditions share overlapping symptoms — a doctor can examine and test to tell them apart accurately.