Gout is a painful form of joint inflammation caused by uric acid crystals. Uric acid forms when the body breaks down substances called purines found in many foods. The kidneys normally remove this waste from the blood. When levels become too high, sharp crystals can collect in and around a joint. Gout frequently affects the big-toe joint, although it can develop in the ankle or other foot joints. An attack can begin suddenly. Symptoms include severe pain, swelling, and redness. The joint can also feel warm and extremely tender. Repeated attacks can damage the joint and limit movement.
Several factors can raise the chance of developing gout. Kidney disease can make it harder to remove uric acid. Family history and excess body weight can also increase risk. Men are affected more frequently, while the risk for women rises after menopause. Foods high in purines and excessive alcohol intake can contribute to attacks. Certain health conditions and medications can raise uric acid levels. However, having risk factors does not mean a person will develop gout. Because an infected joint can cause similar symptoms, patients should seek prompt medical care instead of assuming gout is the cause.
A podiatrist can examine the painful area and review when symptoms began. The evaluation includes questions about earlier attacks, health conditions, and medications. Imaging tests can reveal joint damage or rule out another cause. Fluid from the joint can sometimes be checked for crystals or infection. After confirming the diagnosis, the podiatrist can create a plan to ease inflammation and protect the joint. The podiatrist can also discuss risk factors and coordinate care with other doctors. Shoes that reduce pressure on the sore area can be recommended. Continued medical care is important because untreated gout can cause lasting joint damage. If you have symptoms of gout in a toe, foot, or ankle, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this painful condition.
Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Lawrence Fallat, DPM from Michigan. 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 offices located in Canton and Taylor, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
