Gout is often thought of as a condition affecting older people and it is most common between the ages of 40 and 60. But gout can occur in men and women who are much younger and older. The big toe and ankle joints are frequently affected by symptoms of extreme pain and tenderness to the touch.
Gout is the body’s response to too much uric acid in the blood. While uric acid is a normal component of blood, when the concentration is too high it will crystallize into the peripheral joints causing considerable pain.
Some causes of and contributing factors to a gout attack include the following:
● Having high blood pressure
● High stress
● Diabetes
● Obesity
● Surgery
● Chemotherapy side effects
● Certain medications and vitamins
Some excellent recommendations to treat a gout attack and to avoid getting gout in the first place include the following:
Avoid consuming beverages and foods high in purines like shellfish, organ meats, red wine, beer, and organ meats
Prescription medications like allopurinol can be used to decrease uric acid and treat pain and swelling
Avoid consuming alcoholic beverages which can cause dehydration and increase uric acid
Avoid putting any weight on the foot as much as possible and raise the foot above your heart to help reduce swelling and discomfort.
The symptoms of a gout attack will usually subside within a few hours or days. If you have repeated gout attacks, treatment with long-term medication may be appropriate and will help avoid permanent damage to the joints.
If you are having foot or ankle problems caused by gout, consult with our board-certified podiatrists at Foot and Ankle Center of Fort Lee, LLC. The center offers convenient locations in Fort Lee NJ, Ringwood NJ, Flushing Queens NY, Woodhaven NY, Brooklyn NY, and Forest Hills NY. Contact us at (201) 363-9844and schedule an appointment today!
