Gout is a form of arthritis that causes sudden, severe pain in the joints, most commonly in the big toe. It occurs when uric acid builds up in the blood, forming sharp crystals in the joints. This condition is often triggered by factors like a diet high in purines, which are found in red meat, seafood, and alcohol. Other risk factors include dehydration, obesity, or a family history of gout. Symptoms of gout include intense pain, swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected joint, often making even the light touch of a blanket unbearable. Attacks typically occur at night and can last for several days. A podiatrist can diagnose gout by evaluating your symptoms, performing a physical examination, and ordering blood tests or joint fluid analysis to check uric acid levels. Treatment options include medication to reduce inflammation, pain management, dietary recommendations, and lifestyle changes to prevent future flare-ups. If you have painful gout, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Gabrielle Clark, DPM from LA Feet Foot & Ankle Center, Inc. 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 New Orleans, and Metairie, LA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.