The word gout may make this type of arthritis sound like an exotic condition but it is actually fairly common and affects almost four percent of adults in the United States.
Arthritis Awareness Month is a perfect time to learn what causes it and what to do during a painful attack.
Our skilled podiatric surgeons at Advanced Care Foot and Ankle in Corona and Ontario, California treat various kinds of arthritis including gout, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis along with injuries and other concerns of the feet and ankles. We partner with our patients and create customized treatment plans to decrease pain and increase the ability to be active and enjoy life.
Gout is a type of arthritis that typically affects one joint, often the big toe. It occurs when crystals form in the area from an excess of uric acid in the body.
Symptoms include pain and swelling as well as the affected area looking red and feeling hot. They can come and go over time.
Gout flares can occur unexpectedly and result in significant pain. Fortunately, certain steps can help manage it. They include:
An over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) like ibuprofen or naproxen can help decrease pain and swelling. (Avoid taking aspirin which can make it worse).
A doctor can also prescribe an anti-inflammatory medication like colchicine or a uric acid-lowering drug to reduce the risk if subsequent flares occur. They may also recommend a cortisone injection.
Wrap a bag of crushed ice or frozen peas in a dishtowel and apply to the joint for 20 to 30 minutes several times a day. This can help reduce inflammation and pain.
Swelling may decrease if the joint is raised above the heart.
Drink eight to 16 cups of fluid — preferably water as much as possible — to stay hydrated and help flush out the uric acid. Avoid alcohol, especially beer, which prevents uric acid from being excreted out of the body.
Don't eat foods high in purine (which the body converts to uric acid) like red meat, shellfish, and sugary foods and drinks.
Walking with a cane can help relieve some of the pressure on the joint. If the big toe is affected, cutting a hole in a sock can help too.
Starting treatment within 24 hours of a gout flare can lessen the length and severity. A medical professional can make a definitive diagnosis and they may prescribe medication or a steroid injection to decrease the inflammation.
Whether you've had gout before and know you're having another flare or aren't sure what's going on with a suddenly painful joint, we can help.
Click to book an appointment or call the Corona office at 951-735-8806 or the Ontario office at 909-983-5710 today.