What is Gout?

Hello, My name is Dr. Irene Arroyo and I am one of the podiatrists at Dallas Podiatry Works in Dallas and Plano.

Today I am going to talk about gout.

Gout is: a type of inflammatory arthridity. The big toe joint is the most common joint affected but it can occur in other joints such as ankles, knees, and wrists.

Gout is caused by an increase of uric acid in your blood, which results in accumulation of urate crystals in the joint, producing an inflammatory response. If left untreated, it can damage your joints and tissues.

There are also pre-disposing factors to be aware of, which include: being overweight, high consumption of alcohol, high purine diet (ex. red meats, organ meats, and fish), certain medications such as water pills, having a family history, and having certain medical conditions such as uncontrolled high blood pressure, heart and kidney diseases.

If you think you may have gout, there are specific signs and symptoms which are common during a gout flare such as:

Having a red, swollen joint
Sudden attack of burning type pain with and without walking
Joint stiffness.

Duration of symptoms is unpredictable. It is recommended to seek immediate assistance if you have other generalized symptoms such as fevers and chills.

The process to diagnose gout starts with a:

Physical exam, and x-rays are usually necessary.
A blood test is typically ordered to measure the uric acid level.
In office procedure for aspiration of the joint may be performed to evaluate for uric acid crystals and confirm the diagnosis.

Gout is treatable, and common methods of treatment consist of:

Maintaining a Low purine diet
Shoe gear modifications, namely rigid sole shoes
Arch support (OTC versus custom)
Oral and topical medications to treat your symptoms

Surgical intervention is typically not needed for this condition, particularly if treated during early stages.

There are preventive measures to know of with the ultimate goal to maintain normal uric acid levels, particularly to prevent multiple episodes.

Possible complications if gout is not treated include:

Formation of tophi, which are skin nodules from accumulation of uric acid crystals under the skin
Destruction of joints
Kidney stones

If you suspect having this condition, please call our office and make an appointment. We would be honored to be part of your healthcare team.

The doctor has great “bedside manners” when talking to patients. Great staff and comfortable atmosphere.

Derrick W.

The staff at Dallas Podiatry Works could not have been more courteous, helpful, and professional in doing their job. They made me feel comfortable when I was there, which is certainly appreciated. They answered all the questions that I had and just made each visit the most pleasurable that it could be. I would highly recommend them to anyone needing this type of foot care.

Joseph B.

I would highly recommend Dr. Brook to anyone with foot problems–especially problems that stump other podiatrists. He really is very caring and very knowledgeable.

Jeannette H.

Dr. Joel Brook and the staff were nice and helpful. Though I was a new patient, I got right in as soon as they were open in my preferred location. They diagnosed the problem and provided medicines along with a perfect gel bandage so I could keep exercising while my toes healed. My toes already hurt less and look a little better each day. If I have future issues, I will be a repeat customer. Here’s hoping I don’t, but at least I know my feet are in good hands.

Meryl E.

I visited this office for an ingrown toe nail a few years ago. After seeing another doctor, who made it worse, he referred me to Dallas Podiatry Works. The doctor there was able to fix my problem. I’m not great with reviews, all I can tell you is that this doctor and staff will have you up and running or doing whatever it is you do in no time. You will be in great hands. You’d be a fool not to use this doctor. Now its time to visit him again for the other toe.

Google User

Been having bad ankle pains for 6 months was referred here and it was a great visit ladies in the front desk medical assistants and the Doctor were all very friendly and make you feel very comfortable.