Podiatrists in Dallas Explain Gout

Gout is a condition that causes sudden, sharp pain in the toe joints, ankles, and knees. There are generally no symptoms prior to the first attack but becomes a recurring problem after the first attack. Depending on the severity of your condition, the pain may come and go more frequently. Our podiatrists in Dallas explain more below.

What Is Gout?

Gout is caused by high levels of uric acid in the blood. Uric acid is produced when the body breaks down purines, which are present in many foods, as well as the body. This can either be caused by the body producing too much uric acid, or the kidneys failing to filter it out properly. Uric acid then solidifies into crystals which get stuck in the joints, causing inflammation and triggering painful gout. The pain usually attacks the joint of the big toe, the ankle and the knee.

Risks For Gout

Some risk factors for gout include:

Diet of high-purine foods: red meats, organ meats, caviar, gravies, broths
Being male
Moderate to high alcohol intake
Arthritis
Obesity
Drink sugary drinks

To avoid gout flare-ups, it’s important to reduce the intake of high-purine foods, sugary drinks, and alcohol. If you have a kidney condition or a thyroid condition that causes buildup of uric acid in the blood, get regular checkups with your doctor.

Common Treatments

During a gout attack, ice and elevate the affected joint. Avoid sugar, alcohol, and simply rest. You can take ibuprofen for the pain.

It’s important to talk to your doctor as soon as possible. There are medications that reduce uric acid levels and steroids that can help reduce pain in the joint. If left untreated, gout can damage your joints, limit your movement, and cause kidney damage. Other related health risks, like obesity, kidney disease, and heart disease, are more likely to occur or worsen.

Call Our Podiatrists in Dallas Today To Learn More!

The information provided in this article is not meant to be medical advice and is for educational purposes only. If you would like to learn more about hammertoe and other topics related to podiatry, feel free to contact Dallas Podiatry Works, with a convenient podiatry office in Dallas, TX, by calling 972.564.8556 or by clicking here.

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.