A form of arthritis known as gout can cause severe pain and discomfort and many people have difficulty in walking. Gout develops because of excess uric acid in the blood and may result from genetic factors or eating foods that have high levels of purines. These foods can include shellfish, red meat, alcohol, or drinks that are made with large amounts of sugar. This can cause crystals to develop in the joints of the big toe and may cause debilitating pain as well as redness and swelling. For many people, maintaining a healthy eating regimen can limit the number of gout attacks. It can help to drink plenty of fresh water daily and to engage in a gentle stretching and exercise program. It is beneficial to find out why they may be recurring and learn about methods to control them. If you have gout, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can guide you toward correct treatment options and educate you about effective preventive methods.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Royall from Mountain View Foot & Ankle Clinic. 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 Lehi, UT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.