Gout is a condition many have heard of but with which few are familiar. Primarily affecting older adults and more men than women, you may not yet have had first or even second-hand experience with the disease. Still, its increased prevalence with age makes gout a condition of which all patients should be aware. Whether it strikes you or perhaps a parent or other loved one, knowing the signs, symptoms, and recommended treatments can help alleviate pain and prevent complications.
What does gout feel like?
Gout is described as the sudden onset of exquisite tenderness in one localized area in the foot. The big toe joint is most common area affected, followed by the
ankle joint. However, any joint in the foot can get gout. Patients often say that the onset of pain from gout is sudden and that the area affected is “tender to the touch of a bedsheet.” That’s how severe this can be.
What does gout look like?
With gout, the painful area is typically red and swollen.This redness and swelling is usually localized to one specific area of the foot.In the case of the big toe joint and the ankle, most patients with an acute gout attack are unable to extend and flex the joint because of pain.
What is gout?
Gout is an accumulation of a chemical called uric acid. Uric acid is a natural byproduct of many normal foods, and while they can certainly set off an attack, “food triggers” for gout vary from one person to another. Other risk factors for experiencing an attack include taking a diuretic medication(or fluid pill), having a kidney condition, small levels of dehydration and even stress.
How is gout treated?
Beyond adequate hydration and avoidance of food triggers, medications are typically used to treat gout. In the acute setting, medications like Indomethacin, Colrcys and cortisone can be used. In the chronic, recurrent setting, other medicines like Allopurinol and Uloric are beneficial. Your physician can help you identify and manage a medication regimen that works for you.
Are there long-term consequences from gout for the foot and ankle?
Some patients only experience one gout attack in their lifetime, whereas others may develop symptoms several times a year. When left untreated, gout can lead the buildup of uric acid around certain joints in the foot. This can cause the gradual deterioration of the joint resulting in a form of arthritis.
If you or a loved one develop the symptoms of gout, it is important to quickly seek treatment from a
podiatric physician. A specialist will be intimately familiar with the condition you are experiencing, as well as the treatment options most likely to bring you quick relief. If you are in the Baton Rouge area, contact my office to
request an appointment.
