Gout is a form of arthritis that causes sudden, intense joint pain that can make even light pressure difficult to tolerate. It develops when tiny crystals made of uric acid collect inside a joint and trigger inflammation. Gout most often affects the base of the big toe, but it also affects the midfoot, ankle, or other joints in the foot. Uric acid is a substance that the kidneys usually remove from the body. When too much uric acid builds up, crystals form and irritate the joint. An attack usually begins without warning. The affected joint becomes swollen, red, warm, and extremely painful. As the swelling improves, the skin around the joint sometimes begins to peel.
Several factors increase the risk of developing gout. The kidneys play an important role because they remove uric acid from the bloodstream. When they do not remove enough, uric acid levels rise and crystals develop. Risk factors include being overweight, drinking large amounts of alcohol, and eating excessive amounts of foods high in purines. Purines are natural substances that break down into uric acid. Certain medicines also raise uric acid levels. After one attack, many patients experience additional flare-ups. These attacks become more frequent and affect more than one joint. Repeated inflammation can damage joints and make walking more difficult.
A podiatrist can diagnose gout by reviewing your symptoms, examining the affected foot, and ordering imaging studies or laboratory testing when appropriate. Early diagnosis helps distinguish gout from infections, fractures, or other forms of arthritis. Treatment focuses on reducing pain, controlling inflammation, and protecting the affected joint. A podiatrist also monitors changes in the foot and recommends better foot support to reduce stress on painful joints. Prompt care improves mobility and reduces the risk of lasting joint problems. If you have symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.
Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Richard DiMario from Maine. 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 York, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
