Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that results from the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. It often causes sudden and severe pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness, and most commonly affects the big toe. The pain may start at night and can be intense enough to wake someone from sleep. Gout is accompanied by severe pain, causing difficulty in completing daily activities. Several factors increase the risk of developing gout. These include a diet high in red meat or seafood, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, and certain health conditions such as hypertension or kidney disease. Genetics may also play a role. If you have pain in the joints of your feet, particularly the big toe, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose gout and offer management options.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact the foot specialists from Podiatry Associates of Belleville. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.
People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.
Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Belleville, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.