Gout Specialist

What is gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis that causes sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and swelling that affects your joints, especially the joint at the base of your big toe. Gout attacks often arise out of nowhere, and may cause your affected toe to feel like it’s on fire. You might also have trouble standing up or putting weight on your affected toe. 

What are the symptoms of gout?

Sudden, intense pain that affects your big toe is the most common symptom of gout. Other telltale signs include: 

• Severe joint pain
• Lingering discomfort
• Inflammation
• Redness

As the condition progresses, you might also experience trouble bending or straightening your affected toe. 

When should I see a podiatrist about gout?

You should make an appointment with Dr. Cruz at Gentle Foot Care Clinic if you experience sudden, intense pain that affects one or both of your big toes. You should also make an appointment if your toe feels hot to the touch or appears red and inflamed. Left untreated, gout can lead to worsening pain and in some cases, permanent joint damage. 

Who is at risk of gout?

Gout affects people of all ages and backgrounds, but there are certain factors that can increase your risk, including:

• Eating a protein-rich diet
• Being overweight or obese
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Being a man

You’re also more likely to develop gout if you have a family history of the disease. For example, if your parents or grandparents had gout, you’re more likely to experience it too. 

Is there any way to prevent gout?

Unfortunately, there’s no way to prevent gout entirely. However, there are steps you can take to significantly lower your risk. Dr. Cruz recommends staying hydrated throughout the day, maintaining a healthy body weight, and avoiding alcoholic beverages. He might also ask you to make dietary changes, including limiting your intake of meat and fish and eating low-fat dairy products. 

How is gout treated?

Whenever possible, Dr. Cruz uses conservative, alternative methods of care to relieve symptoms associated with gout. For example, he might prescribe medications to ease swelling and inflammation or medications that limit your body’s ability to produce uric acid. He might also recommend certain lifestyle changes, such as exercising more regularly and eating a balanced diet. 

If you’re living with gout, take action and limit its progress. Make an appointment at Gentle Foot Care Clinic by calling the office nearest you or by clicking the online booking tool.