Years ago, gout was a condition that only the wealthy had to deal with. This is because the disease is often caused by an excessive intake of meat and alcohol, which only rich people could afford. This is because these foods are high in purines. Although the human body can produce purine on its own, eating purines creates something called uric acid. When the body has too much uric acid, gout starts to develop. The medical term for this occurrence is hyperuricemia. People who have gout should limit their purine intake, but this doesn’t necessarily mean you should eat more fruits and vegetables. Besides water, the best drink for people with gout is tea, because it breaks down purines quickly. Gout attacks can be painful. If you want to prevent them you should exercise on a daily basis. Exercising will help supply your joints with nutrients. If you are dealing with gout and need assistance on how to prevent gout attacks, it is best that you speak with your podiatrist.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Sharon Pletcher from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in State College, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.