Gout is a common and intensely painful inflammation that affects about three to five million Americans.

Local doctors say it's something many people ignore until it's too severe.

It is usually in the foot; pain so unbearable you can't stand it.

However, since it has unique characteristics, you may not think it's a form of arthritis known as gout.

"A lot of people don't tend to think that, since arthritis tends to apply to chronic pain or chronic syndrome. Gout is typically an acute syndrome, where someone will have some pain, swelling, redness, warmth in usually just one joint. Often, that joint is in the foot," says Rheumatologist, Dr. Edmund LaCour.

It’s caused by high uric acid levels in the body, caused by taking in a lot of purine.

"If uric acid accumulates over the years it can actually do damage to the joints. There's also the possibility of kidney stones developing if uric acid levels stay very high. So, there are other reasons to treat gout on a long term basis," says Dr. LaCour.

Gout usually targets men over the age of 40, but it can happen at any age.

One familiar face battling the disease is Philadelphia 76ers Head Coach Marice Cheeks.

"I can't describe it to someone who hasn't had it. I can't describe the pain because it's very excruciating pain," says Cheeks.

“Women can get it, but usually after menopause. Coach Cheeks is right; the word excruciating is the most common often as people are talking about it. It's compared to be the most painful of all forms of arthritis," says Dr. Lawrence Edwards, chairman and CEO of the Gout & Uric Acid Education Society.

There are dietary tips for people with gout.

Studies suggest avoid red meat, seafood, coffee, and beer if you have the inflammation.

If you would like more information, log onto: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/gout/DS00090.