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Got gout? Holiday season triggers painful toes

Changes in diet, including overindulging in certain foods and beverages, can cause gout attacks, which are common this time of year, says Joel Brook, DPM, FACFAS.

Gout attacks are extremely painful. They are caused when uric acid accumulates in the tissues or a joint and crystallizes. This most commonly occurs in the big toe joint because it is the coolest part of the body and uric acid is sensitive to temperature changes.

The symptoms of gout and the inflammatory process usually resolve in three to 10 days with treatment. If gout symptoms continue despite the initial treatment, or if repeated attacks occur, you may need to be placed on maintenance treatment that involve daily medication. In cases of repeated episodes, the underlying problem must be addressed, as the build-up of uric acid over time can cause arthritic damage to the joint.

In diagnosing gout, your personal and family history are reviewed and the affected joint examined. X-rays and sometimes laboratory tests are ordered to determine if the inflammation is caused by something other than gout.

Foods that are high in purines contribute to uric acid build-up. It is recommended that people prone to gout attacks avoid purine-rich items such as shellfish (shrimp, crab, etc.), organ meats (kidney, liver, etc.), red meat, red wine and beer.

Gout can be treated with medications, diet changes, increasing consumption of appropriate fluids, and immobilizing and elevating the foot. In some cases surgery is required to remove the uric acid crystals and repair the joint.

For more information, contact Dr. Joel Brook or Dr. David Northcutt at 972-566-7474 or visit www.FootPhysicians.com for more information on foot and ankle conditions such as gout.