How do i know if I have a bone spur on my foot?

I have been having sharp pains in my foot at the base of my big toe. The only weird thing is the pain comes and goes. I never remember what I do to initiate the pain, but each time the pain comes back, it comes back a sharper pain and lasts longer then the time before.The pain is becoming very painful, and it stops me from doing everyday things. My dad said it may either be gout or a bone spur, but i don't know :( I am pretty sure i will have to go to the doctor to have it checked but i was hoping someone would have some answers for me before that.