Gout is a form of arthritis that can cause sudden and intense joint pain. It develops when uric acid crystals collect in a joint and cause inflammation. Uric acid is a substance the body produces when it breaks down certain foods and drinks. Gout frequently affects the joint at the base of the big toe, although other joints can be involved. Symptoms include severe pain, redness, and swelling. The affected joint can also feel warm and extremely sensitive to touch. A gout attack can develop within a few hours and make standing or walking very uncomfortable.

High levels of uric acid in the blood increase the risk of gout, although not everyone with a high level develops the condition. Certain health problems can increase the risk, including kidney disease, high blood pressure, and obesity. Some medications can also contribute to gout. A podiatrist can examine a painful, swollen foot and review the patient's symptoms and medical history. Testing can include blood work or imaging tests to help evaluate the affected joint. In some cases, fluid can be removed from a swollen joint and examined for uric acid crystals. Proper diagnosis is important because an infection can cause similar joint symptoms.

Treatment for gout focuses on controlling inflammation and reducing the risk of future attacks.  Prescription medications can reduce pain and inflammation during an attack. Other medications can lower uric acid levels and help prevent repeated attacks. A podiatrist can also monitor the affected foot for joint damage and other complications. Repeated gout attacks can eventually damage joints and interfere with normal movement. Severe gout can also cause hard deposits of uric acid crystals beneath the skin. Proper medical management can help protect joint health and maintain comfortable movement. If you have symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition. 

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Jeffrey Radack, DPM from Texas Regional Foot & Ankle Clinics. Our doctor 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 office located in McKinney and Coppell, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.