Perhaps one of the most painful conditions that we treat at Sound Foot Care Center of Connecticut is Gout. Gout attacks occur when crystallized uric acid accumulates in a joint. In the foot, the big toe joint is the one most often affected. Symptoms of an attack include extreme pain that comes on suddenly, often in the middle of the night or when you first get up. You may also notice redness, swelling and a feeling of warmth in the affected joint.

Risk Factors for Gout

Uric acid is produced when the body breaks down purines, a chemical that is found normally in the body and also in certain foods. In patients who are susceptible to gout, it is often because the body produces an excessive amount of uric acid or that the kidneys are unable to adequately eliminate uric acid. Other factors that make you more prone to gout include:

• Genetics
• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Obesity
• Recent surgery
• Chemotherapy
• Stress
• Taking some medications and vitamins

Treatment

Our board certified podiatrist, Dr. Harris Greenberger may have you immobilize your foot and not bear weight on it for a period of time to allow the joint a chance to recover. Medications or injections can help with pain, swelling and inflammation. The podiatrist will also want you to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated and avoid foods high in purines. These include: red meat, organ meats, rich sauces, red wine, shellfish and beer.

If you’ve ever experienced a gout attack, you probably don’t need a reminder to contact our Norwalk office for an appointment. If you’ve had one attack, you’re more likely to have another in the future so it’s important to learn how to manage and prevent gout. If you have questions about this or other joint conditions, call us at 203-866-7686.

The post Dealing with Gout appeared first on Sound Foot Care Center of Connecticut.