What metabolite forms crystals in the joints in gout?

Gout or gouty arthritis is a metabolic disease marked with uric acid or uratecrystal deposits, which causes a severe arthritis or joint pain. Gout can occur in any joint, but is usually found in the feet and legs. Gout can create chronic disability, and in some rare cases, severe hypertension or high blood pressure and even kidney failure. For most people, the first attack of gout occurs in the big toe, resulting in very sore, painful, swollen, warm and red toe. It can even awaken a person from sleep. It is extremely important to drink plenty of water. Uric acid is flushed during urination and drinking water is the best way to help your body do this. Drink at least 10 glasses throughout the day.