What is gout?
Gout is brought on by a buildup of uric acid in your joints or tissues. Uric acid results from the breakdown of purines, which are naturally-occurring chemicals in the human body and in food.
The human body typically eliminates uric acid in urine, but people with gout don't expel uric acid properly. As a result, it accumulates and crystallizes in the joints.
Gout usually affects the joint of your big toe because uric acid is sensitive to temperature changes. The big toe is the body part that's farthest from the heart. It’s also the coldest part of your body, making it a common location for gout.
However, gout may affect any joint. If you have gout, it’s best to contact the team at Dan Preece, DPM & Darren Groberg, DPM, about your condition. Untreated gout may cause arthritic damage to your joint over time.
Why do I have gout?
Gout tends to run in families. Other factors increase your likelihood of developing gout, including:
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Stress
- Surgery
- Chemotherapy
- Certain medications and vitamins
Aspirin, the vitamin niacin, and some diuretic medications may increase your risk for gout.
What are the signs of gout?
A gout attack can cause intense pain, often in the middle of the night or as soon as you wake up in the morning. Gout also may cause inflammation in your affected joint.
How is gout diagnosed?
Your provider at Dan Preece, DPM & Darren Groberg, DPM, asks you a series of questions about your family medical history and your overall health. Next, they examine the affected joint and may recommend lab tests and X-rays to rule out other causes.
Once they've diagnosed your condition, they recommend a treatment plan that emphasizes dietary and lifestyle changes.
What are the treatments for gout?
You can expect the team at Dan Preece, DPM & Darren Groberg, DPM, to be aggressive about recommending measures to reduce the uric acid burden in your body. To that end, your initial treatment for gout often includes:
- Dietary changes
- Resting and elevating your affected foot
- Staying hydrated
The team at Dan Preece, DPM & Darren Groberg, DPM, recommends drinking an abundance of water and other fluids. They advise you to avoid alcoholic beverages, which lead to dehydration. They prescribe pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications as needed.
For effective care for gout, trust the expertise of Dan Preece, DPM & Darren Groberg, DPM. Call today or book a consultation online.
