Items filtered by date: July 2025
Understanding Causes of Gout and Accompanying Symptoms
Gout is a form of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, commonly affecting the big toe. It occurs when the body produces too much uric acid or fails to eliminate it efficiently. Risk factors include diet, obesity, genetics, and certain medical conditions. Symptoms usually begin suddenly with intense pain, swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected joint. The area may be extremely tender, making walking or wearing shoes difficult during flare-ups. A podiatrist can diagnose gout through a physical exam, patient history, and tests such as joint fluid analysis or blood tests to measure uric acid levels. Treatment involves managing pain and inflammation with medications, lifestyle changes, and sometimes dietary adjustments to prevent future attacks. If you have this painful condition, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Mark Poplawski, DPM from Jersey Shore Podiatry, LLC. 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 our office located in Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
