Gout is a form of arthritis, that involves bouts of pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness in the joints. It can affect any joint in the body, but it is most commonly found in the joint at the base of the big toe. The symptoms usually occur sporadically, but flare ups will come unexpectedly. The pain can last anywhere from hours to weeks after the initial flare up. Gout happens when uric acid builds up in the blood, because there is too much for the body to properly dispose of it. Uric acids are a byproduct of purines after they are broken down. Therefore, avoiding purine heavy foods could help avoid or lessen painful flare ups of gout. Some high-purine foods to avoid include: any alcohol, anchovies, herring, cod, mussels, bacon, turkey, veal, venison, organ meats, trout, meat-based gravies and sauces, and yeast extract supplements. If you would like any additional information on how your diet might affect your gout, then it is recommended that you speak with a podiatrist.
Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from New Tampa Foot & Ankle. 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 our office located in Wesley Chapel, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
