Gout is a condition that causes extreme, sudden intense pain, swelling, redness, and increased warmth to the affected area, very often the big toe joint. Gout often mimics infection and can go undetected by physicians, as blood tests taken during an attack indicate a normal uric acid level. A podiatrist has the clinical experience necessary to make an early diagnosis.

Gout is the result of the accumulation of uric acid in the blood stream caused by an abnormal metabolism of purines. Purines are crystalline deposits that form in joints or in the soft tissues surrounding the joint. When the excretion of uric acid from the kidneys is thwarted and the uric acid is distributed into the blood stream, the purines form on the joints and the uric acid levels can then return to normal.

Acute attacks of the gout are treated with prescription anti-inflammatory drugs or an injection directly into the joint to disperse the crystalline deposits. Recurrent incidences of gout are treated with drugs, such as Allopurinol, which controls the level of uric acid levels in the blood. Frequently the patient is instructed to start a low purine diet, which restricts the consumption of alcohol and red meat. Patients who take aspirin and some high blood pressure medications are prone to gout attacks and should be monitored.

Foot Tip:

See a podiatrist immediately if symptoms occur. If susceptible to gout, eat a low purine diet by restricting red meat and alcohol consumption.

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