An excess amount of uric acid in the body can lead to a painful condition that is known as gout. This condition is considered to be a form of arthritis and can cause difficulty in walking. It can occur as a result of elevated purine levels which may happen for several reasons including genetics, eating large amounts of shellfish, red meat, and drinking sugary beverages. Additionally, obesity may contribute significantly to the onset of gout. Many patients experience severe pain in the joints surrounding the big toe as a result of inflammation. A proper diagnosis can consist of extracting a small amount of fluid from that affected area. This is followed by viewing it under a microscope to look for uric acid crystals. Mild relief may be found when healthy foods are incorporated into your diet and from taking specific medications that can ease the pain and discomfort of gout. If you are prone to developing gout, it is strongly recommended that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Jon McCreary, DPM from Fort Worth Podiatry. Our doctor 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 our office located in Fort Worth, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.