Don’t Pout About Gout

The day starts off like any other day. You go to work, kick butt, come home and then relax. Things are wonderful as you sit down to your big dinner of baked fish and a nice glass of alcohol. You are relaxed, full, and relatively happy. This is your usual routine. That is until you notice something off with your foot. Its burning, swelling, and stiff. The pain is unimaginable. What happened? Well at the office of Mid-Michigan Foot & Ankle Center we know that it could be gout.

Gout is a type of arthritis that attacks the feet. It can occur over and over and at different intervals unless it is properly treated. Over time the exposure to gout can permanently damage the tissue and tendons of the foot.

Symptoms

  • Burning
  • Swelling
  • Stiffness
  • Tenderness
  • Sharp Pain
  • Redness

All of these symptoms are typically centralized in the toes and typically occurs at night. The ankle, foot, and knees can also get gout but less cases are seen of these instances. These flare ups can last for days or for weeks.

Causes

Gout is caused due to too much uric acid in the blood. It can cause hard crystals to form in the joint of the toes. If you drink too much alcohol, eat too much meat and fish that are high in protein or are overweight you are more likely to get gout. Alcohol, certain types of meat, and being overweight all cause uric acid levels to remain higher in the body. Diuretics, like caffeine, can also lead to gout.

How is it Diagnosed?

If you suspect that you have gout you should see a podiatrist right away. An examination will occur. Sometimes a podiatrist such as Dr. Andrew H. Cohen will remove some fluid from the joint and have it tested to see if there are any uric acid crystals in it. Blood tests can also occur to help diagnose gout.

Treatment

There are many different treatment options for those with gout. The first thing to remember is DO NOT use aspirin to take away gout pain. It will only worsen the condition. Other acceptable forms of treatment are a cortisone shot, resting the joint and over the counter anti-inflammatory medicine.

If you suspect you have gout and your toes and feet are killing you, call 989-790-8009 and make an appointment or sign up for one online. Our offices ae conveniently located in Saginaw and Bay City, Michigan to better serve you. Do not wait, get your gait and foot health in line today!

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