Many do not know that gout is actually a form of arthritis. This foot disease is due to a buildup of uric acid in the joints. While this acid is a typical byproduct of humans, when it builds up in the joints, it can cause extreme pain. In addition, without proper treatment, the uric acid can form in spots outside of just the toe joint, which leads to a series of other health complications. As it is chronic and progressive, it is important to treat it as soon as possible through your podiatrist.
The symptoms of gout can range from extreme joint pain to simple redness or swelling. Oftentimes, a symptom of gout comes in the form of arthritis attacks at the joint, which are severely painful. While most foot-related problems affect women more often, gout is much more likely to crop up in men, particularly in men over forty. There are also lifestyle factors that can increase your likelihood of contracting gout. These include a diet rich in red meat or shellfish, excessive drinking, and obesity, as well as a genetic component.
Treatment often depends on how early your podiatrist is able to diagnose. Lifestyle recommendations, along with icing and elevating, are mild forms of treatment. However, more intensive treatment may be required, such as steroid injections, if you avoid seeing a podiatrist when you notice symptoms.
Gout is a treatable condition, but it is also a condition that can turn into something much worse rather easily. Complications include joint deformity, kidney stones, and more. Alpine Foot Specialists will be able to determine what your redness or joint pain in your foot is before it is too late!
Courtesy of: Healing Feet