Gout is one of the most common forms of arthritis affecting the feet. With locations in Kingston, New Windsor, Wappingers Falls, Hudson, and West Coxsackie, New York, the board-certified podiatrists and foot and ankle surgeons at Hudson Valley Foot Associates provide complete care for gout. Call the location nearest you or schedule an appointment online today to learn more.
Gout is a type of arthritis that causes sudden, intense pain, usually in a single joint. The condition occurs when urate acid crystals collect in your joint. Severe inflammation and redness can develop, limiting your range of motion and mobility. While gout can affect many different joints, it’s most common in the joint at the base of the big toe.
A gout attack can come on suddenly, often in the middle of the night. Common symptoms of gout include:
While gout pain may subside after a few hours, your joint may feel tender, sore, and uncomfortable for several weeks.
When your body breaks down a naturally occurring substance called purines, the chemicals break down to create uric acid. One of the kidneys’ primary functions is to filter uric acid. Too much uric acid in the blood interferes with your kidneys’ ability to remove this substance from the body. As a result, urate acid crystals collect in certain joints.
Gout can affect anybody, but it’s more likely to if you:
Women are significantly more likely to develop gout after menopause than during their child-bearing years.
Common treatments for gout at Hudson Valley Foot Associates include corticosteroid injections and medication. While injections can significantly reduce pain and swelling, certain medications may help lower your uric acid levels.
Prevention is vital when fighting gout attacks. Dietary changes and lifestyle modifications can help minimize the frequency of these attacks. The best forms of prevention include:
To learn more about gout, call Hudson Valley Foot Associates or schedule an appointment online today.