Don’t Pout Because of Gout

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Gout is the accumulation of crystals produced from uric acid in the body. This acid is a byproduct of digestion of certain food and beverages. This condition often affects the big toe joint and can plague other parts of the foot. Uric acid travels through the bloodstream and the kidneys, and when there is an elevated presence of the acid that cannot be expelled by the body, unusually high crystal formation happens, causing significant pain as well as inflammation. Other symptoms associated with this condition include high amounts of pain that make the foot feel very hot and a severe decrease in the ability to use the ankle or toe joints.

Another cause for concern are medications that hinder the processing of uric acid in the body, helping create an environment favorable to this condition. Obesity and diet can also increase your risk of gout because the body makes more uric acid, often as a result of foods with high sugar and purine content, including alcoholic drinks.

Treatment for gout includes:

●       Pain relief medications will help to manage pain and to control the buildup of uric acid by assisting the kidneys with filtering out uric acid into urine.

●       Anti-inflammatories for alleviating swelling in the joints.

●       Changing your diet to include foods that do not produce high amounts of uric acid, such as cherries, vegetables or Vitamin C.

Gout can be a serious condition when left unchecked due to its capability to disrupt joint functionality. At Cange Podiatry Inc., located in Ellicott City and Glen Burnie, MD, our foot doctor, Darlyne Cange, DPM, has vast experience and a proven track record of providing quality assistance with targeted treatment to help reduce the effects of this condition. Please do not hesitate to make an appointment online with our offices and get your joints back in full swing!