How do I tell gout and pseudogout apart?
Both cause sudden, severe joint pain and swelling from crystals in the joint, but the crystals and typical targets differ. Gout (uric acid crystals) most often hits the big toe, is linked to diet and alcohol, and is treated by lowering uric acid (allopurinol). Pseudogout (calcium pyrophosphate crystals) usually hits the knee or wrist, is more common in older adults, and isn't diet-linked — treatment focuses on managing flares.
Last updated 2026-07-04. This is general information, not a substitute for personalised medical advice.
Frequently asked questions
When would you pick Gout (uric acid)?
Big toe, ankle or knee; often at night; alcohol/rich food trigger; family history.
When would you pick Pseudogout (CPPD)?
Knee or wrist; over 60; no diet trigger; sometimes triggered by illness or surgery.
What should I be careful about?
The only way to be certain is joint aspiration — a needle sample examined under a microscope for crystal type.