Gout is a painful form of arthritis that can affect anyone, but it is more common in men and those with a family history of the condition. Furthermore, the risk of gout increases with age. Gout typically presents with sudden and severe joint pain, most commonly in the big toe, but it can affect the ankles and other joints. The affected joint becomes red, swollen, and tender to the touch. Gout occurs due to excess uric acid levels in the blood, leading to the formation of sharp urate crystals in the joints. This build-up can be due to genetics, dietary choices, obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, or medical conditions such as kidney disease. Managing gout involves both lifestyle changes and medical intervention. Lifestyle modifications can include adopting a low-purine diet, limiting alcohol intake, and maintaining a healthy weight. Medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, colchicine, and urate-lowering drugs, can help control pain and prevent future flare-ups. If you suspect you have gout in the big toe or ankle, seeking prompt medical attention from a podiatrist is suggested. This type of doctor can effectively manage gout and help you to lead a more pain-free life.
Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Castillo from Bronx Foot Care. 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 Bronx, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.