Do you have pain in your big toe? Is your big toe swollen? Did these symptoms occur after being sick or becoming injured? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you may be afflicted with a condition known as gout. Gout is an inflammatory type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the blood. Uric acid is naturally produced in the body to help you break down foods that contain purines. Once the purines are broken down, they are cleansed from the body through urine. If something interferes with this process, the buildup of uric acid can turn into urate crystals that collect around soft tissues and joints like the big toe. This can result in inflammation or gout. Men are said to be more susceptible to gout, as are those who eat foods rich in purines. Genetics, health problems like diabetes or high cholesterol, being obese, those who drink alcohol, and those who take diuretics may have an increased risk of developing gout. The pain from gout can be so severe it can interfere with walking and other daily activities. If you think you have gout, make an appointment to see a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and a treatment plan.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from New England Foot and Ankle. 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 Chelmsford and Newburyport, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.