As a fellow gout sufferer, you have my commiseration. Some people might think you're exaggerating about the pain level, but I know you're not. I've experienced a lot of physical pain in my life, but nothing compared to a gout flare.

My first was in my big toe and lasted about 2 weeks. I was in training for a triathlon at the time, fit, trim, and rather more healthy than most men my age.

My next was about 6 months later, also in a big toe although I think the other one. Since then, flares have increased in frequency and are usually in different joints of my feet rather than the big toes. The pain is just as awful.

Unfortunately, because of a different underlying health condition I have, my rheumatologist has not been able to get my uric acid levels under control with traditional gout medication.

I'm feeling a flare coming on now, as a matter of fact and I've been trying all kinds of techniques to fend it off, but I'm afraid it's going to get me.

And when I say afraid, I'm sure you know the fear I'm talking about.