Triggers are events or conditions that can set off a gout attack. Certain risk factors, including a purine-rich diet, are also considered a trigger. Triggers include:

• Joint injury
• Overindulging in alcohol or purine-rich foods
• Over-strenuous exercise
• Severe illness or infection
• Stress
• Sudden weight loss
• Surgery
• Using certain drugs

Hot and humid weather may also be strongly associated with recurrent gout attacks. Such weather can cause sweating and, ultimately, dehydration, which has long been recognized as a potential trigger for gout attacks.

Drinking more water and fluids when it's warm outside could help persons with gout prevent future attacks.