GOUT
Gout is an inherited disorder of purine metabolism in which abnormal amounts of uric acid accumulate in the blood. This causes uric acid crystals to form and deposit in the soft tissues and joints. The uric acid crystals will usually settle to the lowest point of the body, the big toe joint.
Gout usually affects the big toe joint (about 90% of the time) but can also affect the other parts of the body such as the ankle joint. It causes a severe inflammatory response which results in pain, redness and swelling of the affected joint. People who are afflicted with gout often state that even the bed sheet hurts when it touch the affected toe joint. To ease the pain of wearing shoes, often times people will cut out around the big toe joint in an old pair of shoes or wear house shoes.
Excessive uric acid in the blood stream often results from the metabolism of dietary protein. A purine controlled diet may reduce purine levels and thus prevent deposition of uric acid crystals in the big toe joint. Avoid or limit the amount and frequency of alcohol consumption because it increases uric acid production. Any alcohol consumed should be with meals.
Gradual weight reduction to achieve and maintain an ideal body weight can help prevent gout because obesity is associated with gout. Fasting to produce rapid weight loss should be avoided. This can elevate uric acid levels in the bloodstream.
Prescription medicine is used to treat gout and relieve the pain. These prescriptions medications give quick relief from the severe pain of gout.
If you are experiencing any of these signs or symptoms, call today for an appointment.