People who get frequent gout attacks often look for ways that can help to prevent them. The pain can be debilitating from gout, and completing daily activities may be difficult to do. It is a condition that affects the joints in the big toe, and common symptoms can include redness and swelling, in addition to severe pain and discomfort. Gout is a condition that is caused by excess uric acid in the blood, and may happen from the foods that are eaten. Foods that contain a high level of purines often need to be reduced, which may help to control episodes of gout. These foods include shellfish, red meat, and drinks made with large amounts of sugar. High-purine foods may be substituted for foods that have a lower purine level, such as chicken, pork, and ham. It is beneficial to lose extra weight if applicable, and incorporating a gentle exercise regime into the daily routine may help to reduce gout attacks. If you are afflicted with gout, please confer with a podiatrist who can guide you toward effective treatment and prevention methods. 

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Michael A. Wood from Foot Health Institute. 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 one of our offices located in Lansing, and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.