Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that leads to sudden and intense joint pain, often affecting the big toe and usually occurring at night. It can also target the other toes as well as the ankles. Gout arises from having high levels of uric acid in the blood. This substance forms from the breakdown of purines found in foods like red meat, organ meats, certain seafood, sugary sodas, and beer. Excess uric acid can form needle-like crystals in the joints that cause severe pain and swelling. Men are three times more likely to develop gout than women, particularly after age 40. Women become more susceptible post-menopausal because of a decrease in estrogen levels. Risk factors for gout include a diet high in purine-rich foods, high-fructose corn syrup, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, and a family history of gout. Chronic conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, and certain high blood pressure medications are other factors. A podiatrist can diagnose gout through joint fluid analysis, blood tests, and imaging to detect uric acid crystals. If you have sudden and severe pain in the big toe that may be due to gout, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Family Foot & Ankle Centers. 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 one of our offices located in Corsicana, Ennis, and Waxahachie, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.