How long does gout last?

The most severe symptoms associated with gout occur within the first 12 to 24 hours of an attack, according to LiveScience. However, lingering joint pain lasts much longer, depending on the severity of the attack. On average, an attack lasts approximately three to 10 days, says Stamp Out Gout.

Caused by a build up of uric acid within the joints, gout attacks continue to occur unless levels of uric acid are brought down and controlled with medications. While there are generally no symptoms between gout attacks, symptoms do get more intense and more frequent without treatment, warns Stamp Out Gout.