If you’re feeling lingering symptoms of pain, swelling, or redness in your body’s joints, you may have gout. Also known as gouty arthritis, the condition develops when uric acid builds up in our bodies and lead to crystals forming in our joints. When we have gout, our kidneys are unable to process the extra amount of uric acid levels in our bodies. Avoid eating foods that are high in purine such as seafood, high-fructose corn syrup, alcohol, chocolate, and red meat.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, visit Dr. Ronald Sheppard of Warren Watchung Podiatry Center. Our doctors will assess your injury and provide you with quality treatment.
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 feel free to contact our offices located in Marlboro and Watchung, NJ. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.