Gout

/ɡaʊt/ noun

Definition

A painful disease that affects joints (especially the big toe), caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the body.

Etymology

From Old French 'gout,' derived from Latin 'gutta' meaning 'drop.' Medieval doctors thought the disease was caused by 'drops' of bad humors flowing into the joints.

Kelly Says

Gout is called 'the disease of kings' because it was historically associated with rich men who ate too much meat and drank too much alcohol—even King Henry VIII had severe gout!

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