An early symptom of the foot condition that is known as gout may be detected in the blood. Elevated purine or uric acid levels may indicate gout has developed, which can lead to painful attacks. Gout is a form of arthritis and generally affects the joints in the big toe. It can cause debilitating pain and may be accompanied by swelling and redness. Gout can develop from genetic reasons, or from eating foods that have large amounts of purines. These types of foods can include shellfish, red meat, and drinks that are made with heavy amounts of sugar. Many people have gout attacks at night, and pain can be severe during the first several hours. Effective prevention techniques may consist of reducing the number of foods that are eaten that have purines, eliminating alcohol, and drinking plenty of water daily. If you have had one or frequent gout attacks, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition. 

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Summit Podiatry. 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 one of our offices located in Wilmington, Whiteville, and Wallace, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.