If you have sudden, severe joint pain — particularly in the big toe — you may have gout. The podiatrists at Alliance Foot & Ankle Specialists in Grapevine and Keller, Texas, can alleviate an acute attack of gout and help you adjust your lifestyle to avoid future attacks. Men and women in the Grapevine, Keller, and surrounding areas who think they may have gout can get relief and avoid the consequences of untreated gout, such as permanent joint damage, by calling Alliance Foot & Ankle Specialists today.
Gout is a common form of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in your joints. Your body produces uric acid when it breaks down purines — substances that are found in your body and also in foods such as steak, organ meats, seafood, wine, beer, and fructose.
Typically, uric acid dissolves into your bloodstream and is then excreted in your urine.
However, if your body produces too much uric acid or if your kidneys don’t process it, the build-up creates sharp, painful uric crystals that accumulate in your joints or surrounding tissues. The needle-like crystals cause your joints and tissues to swell and may damage your joints.
The most common gout symptom is sudden, intense joint pain, particularly in one of your big toes. However, gout can affect any joint.
Joints with gout usually appear swollen and red. They may be warm to the touch, tender, and may lose mobility as the attack progresses.
Gout pain often occurs at night and is most severe for the first hour or two. Pain should subside after four to 12 hours but can linger for days to weeks.
You are at increased risk for gout if you:
The expert podiatrists at Alliance Foot & Ankle Specialists recommend the following when you have a gout attack:
Your Alliance Foot & Ankle specialist manages your acute gout attack with one or more of the following:
You can prevent gout by adopting a healthier lifestyle that minimizes meat and alcohol and increases your intake of water and low-fat dairy. If you think you have gout, don’t delay treatment. Call Alliance Foot & Ankle Specialists.