Gout is a painful form of arthritis found in joints throughout the body, and is a disease that affects over 8.3 million Americans. Arthritis is a type of musculoskeletal disorder that comes in many different forms. Arthritis can destroy joints, bones, muscles, cartilage and other connective tissues, while restricting physical mobility and motion.

Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis that is caused by the buildup of uric acid in the body. Uric acid is a normal substance found in the human body, and is formed by the breakdown of what are known as purines found in various foods and naturally in tissue. Healthy bodies will absorb uric acid in blood and dispose of it through the creation of urine.Gout

Uric acid can build up in the blood when:

  • The kidneys cannot get rid of enough uric acid
  • A person eats too many foods high in purine content
  • The body increases the amount of uric acid it makes1

An increase of uric acid can lead to:

  • Sharp uric acid crystal deposits in joints, often in the big toe
  • Deposits of uric acid (called tophi) that look like lumps under the skin
  • Kidney stones from uric acid crystals in the kidneys

Many people experiencing gout have shown some of these physical symptoms within the first 12 hours of an attack:

  • Swelling
  • Skin redness and discoloration
  • Peeling or itchy skin
  • Sharp and dull pains
  • Heat around the afflicted area
  • Stiffness in joints
  • Limited movement in joints

You are more likely to have gout if you:

  • Have a family history of the disease
  • Use some medicines such as diuretics, aspirin, cyclosporine, or levodopa
  • Are a male
  • Have had an organ transplant
  • Are overweight
  • Excessively drink alcohol
  • Excessively eat food
  • Eat too many foods rich in purines, such as liver, shellfish, red meat, dried beans, and anchovies
  • Are exposed to lead in the environment
  • Take the vitamin niacin3

Gout Treatment Includes

  • Understanding if the condition is acute or reoccurring/chronic
  • A preliminary Diagnosis with joint fluid and blood test, or changes that can be seen on X-ray
  • Prescription medications to prevent uric acid production or medication that improve uric acid removal
  • Medications such as NSAIDS, colchicine or corticosteroids
  • Lifestyle change

Please contact us when you or a family member has trouble with flat feet. With four qualified, licensed Pennsylvania podiatrists and a friendly, knowledgeable staff, we can help you begin to heal. Call us today.