The pain from a severe gout attack can be debilitating. Many patients find it difficult to walk, and even the weight of a bed sheet can be disturbing. Gout is a type of arthritis that is brought on by an excess amount of uric acid in the blood. This converts to crystals, and can lodge in the joints of the big toe. Gout can develop from genetic reasons, leading a sedentary lifestyle, or from eating foods that are not healthy. These include an excess of red meat, shellfish or alcohol, or from having drinks that are made with large amounts of sugar. There may also be existing medical conditions that can lead to gout. Among these are obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, or kidney damage. A proper diagnosis of gout involves having a blood sample drawn that can determine the uric acid level. In severe cases, there may be a needle inserted into the affected joint, and an analysis of the fluid. Relief may be found when the foot is elevated, and this may help to diminish a portion of the swelling that often accompanies gout. If you have gout attacks, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat this condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Loren Hansen, DPM from Ankle & Foot Medical Center. 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 Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.