The medical condition that is referred to as gout is a form of arthritis. This ailment is the result of excess uric acid in the blood, and the joint in the big toe is typically affected. It may originate from eating foods that are high in purines, which may include shellfish, red meat, or drinking excess alcohol. Patients who experience gout often notice several symptoms, in addition to severe pain and discomfort. These often include swelling, tenderness when touched, throbbing, and heat emanating from the affected joint. Research has shown there are stages in the onset of gout. The first one occurs before the actual attack. This is when the uric acid levels are elevating, and there are typically no symptoms. The second phase occurs when the attack happens, and severe pain is generally felt at this point. Another stage that is called interval gout indicates the time that elapses between gout attacks. If you feel you are experiencing any stages of gout, it is strongly advised to speak with a podiatrist who can perform a proper diagnosis and begin the correct treatment.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff from Lake Worth Podiatry. 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 Lake Worth, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.