Where is gout pain in toe

However, a quarter of those with hyperuricemia do not develop gout. When the body breaks down purines, it produces uric acid. Typically, the kidneys remove a certain amount of uric acid in the urine.

However, when they are unable to remove enough uric acid, uric acid crystals can form in the joints and soft tissues, causing swelling and pain. Gout typically affects males more than females. However, females have higher levels of uric acid after menopause. NIAMS state that being older also increases the chance of developing gout. Genetics can also increase the chance of developing gout. According to the CDC , other factors that may increase the likelihood of gout include:.

NIAMS recommend avoiding foods high in purine, such as:. Conversely, certain foods have the potential of lowering uric acid levels, the primary cause of gout attacks. Gout can be debilitating, but there are many lifestyle and dietary changes that may help prevent gout:. A person can learn more about foods to eat and foods to avoid with gout. A doctor has to carry out several examinations to diagnose gout.

One of the tests is a joint fluid test, which involves drawing fluid from the affected joint. The presence of urate crystals in the fluid is an indication of gout. Doctors can also do blood tests to examine the uric acid levels in the body. However, the NIH state that some people with high uric acid may never develop gout symptoms, while those with low uric acid may experience gout attacks. Doctors can also perform an X-ray or ultrasound to detect evidence of urate crystals and determine the cause of the inflammation.

Gout occurs without warning. Anyone experiencing intense pain on the big toe, followed by warmth, tenderness, redness or discoloration, should immediately seek medical attention. If a person does not receive treatment for gout, it can lead to joint damage over time, including bone erosions and arthritis. Gout attacks typically begin in the big toe. Gout attacks can be excruciating and people typically need medication to lower the uric acid levels and prevent uric acid buildup and joint damage.

Lifestyle and dietary changes may help prevent future attacks. Share on: Facebook Twitter. Show references Gout. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Accessed Dec. Goldman L, et al. Crystal deposition diseases. In: Goldman-Cecil Medicine. Elsevier; Ferri FF. In: Ferri's Clinical Advisor American College of Rheumatology. Caffo AL. Clinical manifestations and diagnosis of gout. Gout or pseudogout adult. Mayo Clinic. Gloperba prescribing information.

Food and Drug Administration. Along with oral medications, you may be asked to change your diet to reduce your intake of foods with high purine levels to decrease your uric acid production. If you experience frequent gout attacks, our podiatrists may refer you to your primary care physician who can prescribe a long-term medication to control your output of uric acid. Repeated gout attacks can also cause arthritic changes to occur within your affected joints.

Invasive treatment In extreme cases of recurrent gout, surgery may be needed to remove the uric acid crystals from the joint to prevent further damage. Our podiatrists will always look for conservative options first, and only suggest surgery when absolutely necessary. Home remedies There are quite a few home remedies that are said to alleviate and reduce gout inflammation, formation, and flare ups. These remedies may not directly fight gout, but they often help support proper kidney function, reduction of inflammation, and help lower uric acid levels, which all help in preventing gout formation and impact.

For more information about Gout, other foot problems and treatment options, or to have your feet assessed, contact us today or schedule an appointment at one of our conveniently located Middle Tennessee locations!

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