Acute gout (also known as acute gouty arthritis) is one of the most common forms of arthritis, especially in middle-aged and elderly men. Gout attacks often come on suddenly, typically at night, and can become severe within just a few hours, causing the affected joint to become swollen, red, and extremely tender. This article is medically reviewed by MSc, MD. Nguyen Thi Oanh – Internal Medicine Specialist in Rheumatology – General Internal Medicine Department – Vinmec Times City International General Hospital.