Gout Specialist

What is gout?

Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis that can occur in one or more joints. Often present in the joint at the base of your big toe, gout can be incredibly painful and quite disruptive to your normal routines. 

This form of arthritis develops when urate crystals build up within a joint. Those crystals form as a result of high levels of uric acid within your blood. Your body naturally produces uric acid as it breaks down purines in your body and in certain foods like alcohol, red meat, scallops, and anchovies. 

You’re more likely to develop gout if you are overweight, taking certain medications, struggling with certain health conditions, or have a family history of gout.  

What are some signs I might have gout?

Knowing what to look for can make it easier to know when to seek treatment for gout. The condition is common in the joint at the base of your big toe. Some of the symptoms of this type of inflammatory arthritis include:

• Severe pain
• Swelling
• Redness
• Tenderness, even with just a light touch
• Stiffness
• Feeling of warmth within the joint

If you notice these changes, call Associated Foot Specialists right away to book a diagnostic exam. 

Are there treatments that can help with gout?

If a physical examination and blood work reveal signs of gout, your practitioner explains all available treatment options. You’ll have all the details needed to make an informed decision about your care. 

A medication called colchicine can reduce inflammation if taken within the first 24 hours of the onset of gout symptoms. Over-the-counter medications can help manage discomfort. Oral or injected corticosteroids can help by controlling swelling within the affected joint. 

Once you’ve experienced the pain of a gout attack, you’ll want to do all you can to reduce your risk of future attacks. Fortunately, you can do some things to prevent future symptoms. Some tips include:

• Always drink plenty of water to flush your kidneys.
• Avoid certain foods like shellfish, organ meat, and gravy.
• Limit the use of diuretic medications.
• Work to reach and maintain a healthy weight.
• Limit alcohol consumption.

If you’re concerned about sudden foot pain and would like to be evaluated for gout, call Associated Foot Specialists today to set up a visit, or book using the simple online tool.