Gout Pain in the Toes

Gout is an arthritic condition that mainly affects the joints located near the big toe. Gout sufferers often describe the experience as a burning sensation in their toes. The condition can be very painful making it extremely difficult to walk or even stand.

Gout occurs when uric acid crystals are deposited in a joint. This in turn causes inflammation which irritates nerves triggering pain in the area. Uric acid is a waste product that enters the kidneys and is eliminated through urination. The problem happens when the level of uric acid exceeds the filtering capacity of the kidneys. It enters the bloodstream and is deposited in the joints.

Symptoms of Foot Gout

·       Intense, sudden pain in the joint

·       Redness and inflammation

·       Lingering discomfort even after the pain subsides

·       Burning sensation in the joint

·       Severe pain accompanied by high fever

Causes of Gout

Gout can be caused by unhealthy lifestyle habits. High levels of uric acid in the blood can be due to eating uric-acid rich foods. People with a family history of gout are also at high risk for developing the condition. Gout can also be traced to an underlying medical condition. Possible causes of gout include:

·       Obesity

·       Diabetes

·       Sickle cell anemia

·       Kidney diseases

·       Alcoholism

·       Purine rich foods

·       Medications

Men are more likely to suffer from gout. This is a problem associated with lifestyle habits rather than sex. Alcohol abuse increases the levels of uric acid in the blood. Alcoholism can also damage the kidneys, the organ responsible for filtering blood impurities. Talk with a podiatrist for more information about gout and its causes.

Treating Foot Gout

Gout if not caused by an underlying disease is easily treated. Lifestyle changes such as eating healthy foods and reducing alcohol consumption greatly reduces your chances of future gout episodes. The main goal of gout treatment is to lower the levels of uric acid in the blood, reduce inflammation and provide pain relief.

·       Doctors recommend using anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling and ultimately relieve pain

·       For people suffering from severe pain, a corticosteroid injection can be used for more immediate pain relief

·       Drink plenty of liquids to reduce uric content in the body

·       Lifestyle changes such as avoiding alcohol and food rich in purine (red meat, beans and pears) is advised

·       Apply cold compress over the area for 15 to 20 minutes, be careful to avoid exposing the skin to cold temperature for prolonged periods of time as this can cause skin damage

Consult a podiatrist if gout episodes becomes chronic or is not relieved by implementing lifestyle changes. Contact Podiatry Group of Annapolis and let us help with all your foot and ankle needs. Dr. James Mckee and Dr. Adam Weaver are experienced and dedicated podiatrists who provide high-quality individualized care. Call us today at 410-224-4448 or visit us online to make an appointment at our conveniently located Annapolis office.