Gout is a type of arthritis that occurs when uric acid crystals accumulate in the joints, most commonly affecting the big toe. It can cause sudden and intense pain, swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected area, making walking or wearing shoes difficult. Causes include high levels of uric acid in the blood, dietary factors, genetics, and certain medical conditions. Risk factors involve obesity, high purine diets, alcohol consumption, and family history. A podiatrist can diagnose gout, recommend lifestyle modifications, prescribe medications to reduce uric acid levels, and provide strategies to manage pain and prevent flare ups. If you have intense pain in your big toe, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and help you to manage this painful condition.
Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Community Foot Specialists. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.
Symptoms
- Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
- Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
- Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
- Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility
Risk Factors
- Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
- Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
- Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
- Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
- Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
- Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout
Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Beavercreek, Dayton, and Vandalia, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.